Throughout its long history, the Bermagui Public School (BPS) has been a place of learning, connection, inspiration, and friendship for thousands of students, staff, and parents.

Brian Blacka, a BPS alumnus from way back, recently reflected on his time at the School. Four generations of the Blacka family attended the School including Brian’s grandmother, his father, his son and daughter, and himself.

Brian attended from Kindergarten until Year 8, back when local students had to make the long journey to Narooma High School to continue their education.

School wasn’t exactly Brian’s favourite place and he admits that he often dawdled to School, waiting for Friday afternoon, when he could hang out with his mates and ride his bike on the weekend.

In those days, school subjects were limited to the basics: English, maths, science, and history, alongside metalwork or woodwork for the boys, and sewing or cooking for the girls – there was no art or music. The only excursions Brian recalls were trips to the beach, and perhaps a single visit to the local Ambulance station. Classrooms operated differently too; there was one teacher per year level, who rotated between rooms for different subjects.

Brian still remembers the uniform clearly: grey shorts, no tie, and a grey jumper with a black-and-yellow V-neck. While lunch was usually brought from home, once a week, Bruce Hyland from the bakery brought fresh pies for the kids. There was always milk served from a big bucket, and every now and then, Ron and Elaine Keating brought fish and chips from their shop, which was the best treat.

Brian blames Lionel Constable for getting him into trouble when he was ten years old. One day after recess, Lionel talked Brian into sneaking over to the beach, but they were caught. Brian received two cuts of the cane, while Lionel got six. In those days, discipline was strict, and getting the cane was a regular event, and girls were not exempt.

Despite the strict discipline, the bonds formed at Bermagui Public School have lasted a lifetime and Brian is still close friends with many of his classmates.

Deb Worgan

Photo: Bermagui Public School 150-year anniversary event