General News
15 September, 2024
Ararat Primary makeover
ARARAT 800 Primary School is gearing up for an exciting transformation of its outdoor spaces, thanks to the efforts of the school council and community members.
ARARAT 800 Primary School is gearing up for an exciting transformation of its outdoor spaces, thanks to the efforts of the school council and community members.
Led by council member Kate Hamilton, the school is undertaking a project to revitalise its grounds and play areas, bringing new life to some of the tired garden beds and spaces around the school.
In collaboration with local business owners Russell and Robyn Phillips from GrowMaster Grampians, a detailed plan has been developed to refresh the garden beds along the school’s Moore Street entrance.
The project encourages parents, caregivers, and community members to participate by donating a plant, which will be planted during a working bee scheduled for Sunday, September 22, 2024.
“We are seeking donations towards our garden,” said Ms. Hamilton.
“We are seeking donations towards our garden. The more donations we get it for our garden improvements mean more we can put toward other updates school council have planned, which include a sensory play space and dedicated indoor area, designed for safe place to host One Red Tree sessions and other one on one student needs.”
Russell and Robyn from GrowMaster Grampians have made it easy for anyone to contribute by setting up a system where donations can be made directly at the nursery.
“We understand these are tough economic times, and even just $5 can help make a meaningful difference,” Ms Hamilton added.
The project has already gained momentum, with eight families making donations within the first week.
Russell Phillips, co-owner of GrowMaster Grampians, emphasised the importance of getting children involved in gardening.
“Trying to encourage our young gardeners to come and get out in the garden,” he said.
Promoting the One Child, One Tree initiative to all schools encourages parents and grandparents to get kids out into the garden and away from our screens.
The One Tree Per Child initiative, founded by Olivia Newton-John and Jon Dee in 2015, aims to have every child plant at least one tree before they leave school.
“I'm happy to help the school and encourage the kids to get out there and garden. They have a lot of work to do, but they’ll get it done,” Mr Phillips said.