WITH Wondall Heights State School’s “mega raffle” fundraiser having already generated nearly $20,000, it is safe to say community connections are paying off.
Event coordinator Anita Clohesy said the donations would go towards building an outdoor learning area alongside the school’s library, to “create an amazing indoor-outdoor flexible learning space for our children”.
“We envisage students enjoying fresh air and sunshine while engaging in both collaborative and individual activities,” she said.
Up for grabs is a host of prizes, including a family holiday to Daydream Island, and a getaway to Tangalooma Island Resort.
Ms Clohesy said the success of the ongoing fundraiser lay in the relationships that the staff, students and parents of the Manly West school had developed within the community.
“At the beginning of the year, Parents and Citizens’ members rallied together brainstorming ideas and we put out the call to local businesses for support. We were blown away by the generosity of so many,” she said.
Through the school’s involvement in the EcoMarines environmental education program in Tangalooma, the island resort “was delighted to be involved” and donate the hefty family prize.
Real estate professional Josh Warren is providing the Daydream Island escape. “Josh is a family man and truly wants to support and connect with other families in his local area,” Ms Clohesy said.
Wondall Heights students themselves have been hustling, with community outings and friendly rivalries encouraged as they vie to one-up their classmates.
“Some individual families have sold close to $1000 in raffle tickets themselves! It’s been phenomenal. This level of support comes from their connection to the school and the Wondall community.”
Wondall Heights State School is well on the way to reaching its $25,000 goal, with the raffle set to be drawn on December 2.
