by Maddie Hite and Braeden Washbrook

Cobargo Public School was thrilled to celebrate 150 wonderful years of education! More thanver 350 visitors came through the school, travelling from far and wide to recognise this special day.

I’d like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet today. I would also like to pay my respects to Elders past and present.

Thank you, Miss Langton for this prestigous award.

Good morning, I’m Braeden Washbrook and I’m the extremely proud school captain of this amazing school alongside Maddie Hite. I know many of you just see a playground now, but this place has changed me and has shaped me into the boy I have become, and the man I will be.

As much as kids around Australia all think they don’t want to go to school… because, you know, it’s school … but really, honestly, there’s never been a day when I haven’t wanted to walk through those gates. It is clear that both students and educators have a very special connection with this school and a there is a bond we all share with each other.

 I’ve been here for five and a half years yet I still don’t want to leave. I still remember moving here from Year One at Bermagui Public. I was scared and not sure this school was the right choice. But it is the best thing that ever happened to me.

Thank you for coming to enjoy your time here today to mark this special moment in the school’s history.

Hi, my name is Maddie Hite. I am very honoured to be one of the 150 school captains that have represented the student body of this amazing school.

 I have been a student of Cobargo Public School for six and a half years and they have been full of memories and joy … apart from the odd footy loss.

 My favourite memory was attending the SCLC shows for music and representing this school with this kid next to me who is incredibly talented on the drumkit.

 I can still recall when I was in kindergarten being cared for in a way that made me feel encouraged and protected. This feeling of community and safety has solidified with every year that I have attended. My brain is a sponge, and this school has filled me with the knowledge and skills that I will take with me forever.

 I guess if the goal of education is to produce good people with great values and a strong moral compass, something to say and the confidence to say it … then this place has done a pretty good job. I would also like to take the time to thank Mr Wayne Dunning and Fiona Hoskins for all their efforts in making this a wonderful day. The P&C, the Scouts, the Historic Society, the CWA, the coffee van and the Year 6 fundraising committee for being with us today, thanks for their work and effort. I won’t talk for long because there are a lot of displays, so I hope you enjoy.