Pupils think pink at Portarlington Primary School to help cure breast cancer

IN 1999, Margaret McCombe a much-loved teacher at Portarlington Primary School, was diagnosed with breast cancer.

In 2001 she passed away, leaving a long-lasting legacy.

Principal Lesley Allbutt said the school gave a yearly memorial award to a grade 6 student, until the students decided they wanted to make a difference and do more.

The Pink Team initiative launched in 2012, selecting a group of students annually to spearhead the school’s fundraising efforts for breast cancer.

“A pink team is selected based on very special criteria: students who are kind, caring, community minded and quiet achievers.

“Each year, the team runs a Pink Day to raise awareness and funds for research into breast cancer. Face painting, hair colour, costumes, sausage sizzle, pink food, book and toy sales are just some of the previous activities.

“The students have raised $3,536 over the past six years.”

Ms Allbutt said this year a “highly motivated and caring” grade 5 student, Pagan Austin, made 120 pink scrunchies, unaided, in her spare time.

“Together with Liam De’Araugo and Riley Gray, the 2019 Pink Team are on track to make another sizeable donation in the hope of curing breast cancer.

“Children really do make a difference.”