St Clare’s Primary School in Officer celebrated the official blessing and opening of the school’s new Jubilee Garden on Thursday 3 November.
The local primary school received $20,000 from the Federal Government’s Planting Trees for the Queen’s Jubilee Program.
The program supports community-based tree planting events across Australia to commemorate Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Director of catholic education for the Diocese of Sale Maria Kirkwood congratulated the school for developing the outdoor space.
“It is wonderful to witness the development of St Clare’s Catholic Primary School since its opening in 2015 and to thank so many people for their passion and drive in making projects like this Jubilee Garden happen,” Ms Kirkwood said.
“The excitement on the student’s faces today reflects their pride in showcasing their school to their community. This garden enhances the school grounds, increases biodiversity and provides another healthy outdoor area for students to enjoy and learn in.”
St Patrick’s Parish Reverend Janeesh Jose blessed the native garden and outdoor learning space.
Federal Latrobe MP Jason Wood and Ms Kirkwood unveiled the plaque to officially open the garden.
St Clare’s Primary School principal Helen Staindl thanked all involved in the project for helping it to come to life.
“The grant enabled the school to engage the expertise of landscape architects to create an exceptional garden space that will grow year in year out,” Ms Staindl said.
“The garden features native trees and shrubs and is irrigated to ensure its longevity. We hope this new garden will in turn become a Jubilee Forest – creating a shaded space for students to play.
“It has been a fantastic project to bring our school community together after COVID lockdowns and something that our staff and students can enjoy for years to come.”
