In reference to plans for a new pre-school (May 22, 2019) the current Grenfell Pre-School Kindergarten was preceded by a private venture operated in the Anglican Parish Hall in the early 1960's by Mrs Cecily Dunstall as the inaugural teacher.
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In 1964, Cecily was to return to Grenfell Public School to resume full-time teaching and a Committee was formed to maintain the continuance of the Centre. Pam Holland was elected President.
Cecily had recommended that I be approached to replace her as I had assisted her on many occasions, playing the piano for the children's concerts and being familiar with the routine.
Following a two week handover period working with Cecily, I became the next Pre-School teacher.
Always guided by the Child Welfare Department, the attendance limit was set at twenty children attending the five half day sessions per week.
Exceeding this number required an extra teacher and Gwen Innes was happy to assist when needed.
A small number of dedicated parents, including Harold Goodwin who was our Spokesperson and well known for his Community spirit, attended one Council meeting seeking approval for a new Pre-School premises.
The Apex Club purchased the old Methodist Church and handed it over to Council. Pre-School was conducted in this building until the building was demolished and the new one was built.
Our temporary accommodation was held in the old Tea Rooms in the Show grounds.
The children enjoyed this experience and their creativity was inspired by the unusual materials collected from beneath the trees around the grounds.
So much was achieved by our Committee of volunteers; and in no time we had a Pre-School to be proud of. The Committee was able to fulfil the Departmental Supervisor's recommendations set out in her reports, so the task of maintaining the Centre was worthwhile.
As the benefits of Pre-School became known, the numbers increased and a second teacher was required.
Julie Harveyson was employed full time for the role of Assistant. Two afternoons sessions were also introduced for the three year olds.
A great example of a vision for a Community Pre-School realised through hard work and determination.
Shirley Turner
Praise for Festival
Thank you HLF committee for making my day enjoyable. It was fantastic to be able to get around the festival with ease on my mobility scooter.
Being able to get on and off footpaths with ease as well as having easy access to all stalls was great.
The set up of the stalls in the street meant that I was able to look at the stalls and get into stores in the street with ease.
Congratulations again a job well done and very much appreciated.
Jasmine pipe
