Local market goes a long way for St Leonards Primary School

ST LEONARDS Primary School will continue to generate strong educational opportunities for its students thanks to a generous $9000 contribution from local community superstar Michelle Browne.

For close to 30 years, Ms Browne has facilitated the St Leonards Foreshore Market and has used stallholder hire fees as a key mechanism to go towards funding projects for the school.

From her children attending the school through the early 90’s, Ms Browne developed a love for the school environment and after her children finished schooling, she wanted to continue to help out any way she could.

“Running the market for close to 30 years has been very enjoyable and a great way of connecting with the community, while supporting a school that my kids grew up attending,” Ms Browne said.

“I’m a big advocate for community, and my sister Janette still works up at the school, so I feel it’s a great way to give back and support the kids with their education.”

Ms Browne raises money for the school through market stallholder hire, where the fees associated with being a part of the market go straight back into the local community establishment.

She said between 50-100 stallholders turn up and pay their fee each year, while community groups are given a free stall to promote their strong contribution to society.

Her sister and St Leonards Primary School Business Manager Janette Brennan said the school was overwhelmed by the support Ms Browne has supplied for close to three decades, saying that it is a true testament to her sister’s character and exceptional work ethic.

“Michelle never does anything half hearted and she puts a lot of effort into making sure the markets are fun for all.”

School principal Jenny Cowburn also expressed her gratitude for Ms Browne’s hard work, saying her contribution is one that the school is eternally grateful for.

“We absolutely can’t thank her enough for the contribution that she has made to our little school in St Leonards,” Cowburn said.

“The huge $9000 donation will go towards our teaching and learning program to continue providing more resources for our children at the school which we feel is super important.

“Historically, Michelle runs a one woman band down at the markets, so for her to generate this amazing donation is truly remarkable.”

Ms Browne proudly handed over the $9000 cheque to the school last week, hoping that the donation would continue to advance all areas of curriculum and learning for its students long into the future.The St Leonards Foreshore Market is run predominantly between November and April. Photo: DON KENYON