A beary good picnic at playgroup

THE Tooborac Playgroup held a Teddy Bear’s Picnic for the last session of term three.

Children, parents and community members brought along their favourite teddies and stuffed toys for a session of teddy-themed songs, games and stories.

Emily Alexandra, who attends the playgroup every week with two-year-old daughter Leonie, said they both enjoy the weekly themes and activities.

“It is wonderful that the community is able to use this fantastic school,” she said.

After Tooborac Primary School was deemed non-operational this year due to lack of enrolments, an action group was formed to promote future enrolments.

Supported by the TPS Community Action Group and the primary school, a playgroup was formed to bring families together.

“There are a lot of two- and three-year-olds in the playgroup and we are all hoping the school is here for us when we need it,” said Ms Alexandra.

“My partner and I would love to send our daughter here in future years, as would a lot of locals.

“It is not unusual for towns to have a dip in enrolments, then a boom as families grow.

“I’ve seen other regional locations merge schools and it’s a disaster. Then you have beautiful buildings sitting unused.

“When so much money was invested in TPS in recent years, I really hope that doesn’t happen here. If six kids enrol for next year it will keep the school operational.

“I would encourage any local families hoping to send their kids here, at any stage in the future, to fill in an enrolment form.”

An open day will be held at the school on Sunday 13 October.

“We will have a barbecue and families can view the school facilities and meet community members,” said TPS Community Action Group member Sue Anderson.

“We have a wonderful supportive community, and anyone interested in enrolling their children is welcome.

“The playgroup, led by Janita Dundon, has been very successful and we are pleased it will continue in term four.”

Upcoming themes for the playgroup include bugs, numbers, Australian animals and dinosaurs.

Anyone interested in joining the playgroup, which meets every Tuesday at 9.15am, can contact Ms Dundon on 0409 857 764.