General News
3 November, 2025
Honouring 150 years of learning
ARARAT Primary School marked a major milestone in late October, celebrating 150 years at its Moore Street site. Past students, teachers, parents, and community members, gathered in the afternoon, eager to share stories of the school’s long history of education.
Acting Principal Natalie Dowsett officially welcomed guests, reflecting on the school’s long-standing place in the Ararat community.
“For a century and a half this school has been at the heart of our community, a place of learning, growth and belonging. Thousands of students have walked through these gates each leaving their mark and each carrying a part of this school’s story with into the world,” she said.
Ms Dowsett said it was rewarding to see the celebration come together after months of preparation.
“It’s very rewarding to see all the hard work that we put in together that all the people have come. I’m sure there’s plenty of stories so I can’t wait to meet all the people and hear all their stories and Bill (Jones) has been fantastic with drumming up people and all his history.”
Former principal and student Bill Jones also addressed the crowd, recalling the many memories made within the school’s walls.
“In amongst the bricks and tiles and creaking floors there are thousands of stories. I’m proud of all the students,” he said.
“Everybody has potential and it’s a great honour in later years to see that potential realised.”
A highlight of the event was the official launch of the school’s new history book, which documents generations of stories and achievements.
“We set about putting a book together just to tell a few of those stories and Tammi Sladdin, who’s a former student, offered to assist in doing that work,” Mr Jones said.
Mr Jones also paid tribute to the former staff who helped shape the school’s reputation.
“We had fun, we did all sorts of things and had all sorts of adventures all for the benefit of the students,” he said.
Assistant Principal Shae Nechwatal took the opportunity to honour the efforts of former teachers who left their mark on the school, including former teacher Kaye Powell, who’s mosaic artworks decorate the school’s entrance.
She said a plaque will be installed in the school’s front office as thanks for her dedication to the school.
“Her philosophy was simple. We don’t know what children are capable of, so set your expectations high and they’ll often reach those heights.”
Adding to the historical celebration, Assistant Principal Tom Hogan revealed the restoration of the school’s original 1966–1975 sign, now displayed at the corner of Moore and King Street.
“It was found under the school and we decided to restore it for this special celebration,” he said.