Tuesday, 28 October 2025

 Martha HAYLETT (Ripon) (13:01): There have been some big, historic milestones for communities across Ripon recently.

Ten days ago Amphitheatre Primary School celebrated its 150th birthday. The whole community came together for the occasion, with over 200 former students, teachers, parents and lots of cake. Thank you to principal Louis Franc, school council president Hayley Richards and the 15 incredible students for welcoming us all for such an important milestone.

Last Friday we also celebrated St Arnaud Primary School’s 150th birthday. There was a time capsule ceremony, a plaque unveiling, a historic display in the arts centre and a brand new mural painted for the school community. The school captains Tadi Shayamano and Maddox Stewart did a tremendous job on the day, as did principal Melissa Mitchell and her team. I especially loved meeting two-week-old Silas with his superwoman mum Emily Gosden, the school’s learning specialist.

A big congratulations also to the St Arnaud brass band, who also celebrated their 150th birthday a few weeks ago. The band has never skipped a beat in that time, being the soundtrack to the community during commemorative days, annual show days and so much more. Thank you to secretary Helen Burns and every band member for all you do for the St Arnaud community.

A big congratulations also to the Lilyana Country Women’s Association in Beaufort. Last week they celebrated 50 years of friendship, support and service with a get-together at the Beaufort community centre. There were endless laughs, stories, songs, cups of tea, sandwiches and scones shared.