Generations of students, families and staff have come together to celebrate an incredible milestone, with Haigslea State School marking its 150th anniversary.
Member for Ipswich West Wendy Bourne joined the school community on Saturday 29 August to celebrate a century and a half of education and recognise the generations of people who have helped shape the school since it first opened in 1876.
Originally known as Walloon Scrub State School, the school was established after local families pushed for their children to have access to an education closer to home.
While plenty has changed since then, Ms Bourne said the strong community spirit behind the school remained an important part of Haigslea today.
“150 years is an incredible milestone for any school, but there is something particularly special about seeing a small community school like Haigslea reach this anniversary,” Ms Bourne said.
“When the school opened in 1876, it was local families who came together and pushed for a school for their children, and 150 years later you can still see that same sense of community.”
“Generations of teachers, staff, parents and volunteers have all played their part, alongside the thousands of students who have walked through these school gates.”
Ms Bourne said she had a particular appreciation for the role small schools play in their communities, with her own son having attended the small school at Ashwell.
“When you’re part of a small school, everyone gets involved. When my son was at Ashwell, that even included me helping mow the school lawns,” Ms Bourne said.
“That’s what makes schools like Haigslea so special. Everyone knows each other, families pitch in and the school becomes a really important part of the wider community.”
The anniversary celebrations brought together current and former students, staff and families to reflect on the school’s history and celebrate its place in the Haigslea community.
“You could really see that community spirit on Saturday and just how many people had come together to make this 150th anniversary celebration happen,” Ms Bourne said.
“A huge thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the day such a success, particularly P&C President Erin Davis and the entire P&C, Principal Anna Thygesen, staff, families and the many others who contributed their time and effort.”
“I’m incredibly proud to represent around 20 schools across Ipswich West, each with their own history and traditions, but reaching 150 years is something truly remarkable.”
“Congratulations to the entire Haigslea State School community on 150 wonderful years, and here’s to the next 150.”
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