Old-fashioned fun brings schools together

STUDENTS from Heathcote, Holy Rosary and Tooborac primary schools gathered at Barrack Reserve last Friday for the McIvor Old-Fashioned Games.

Competitors tried their hands at several old-style favourites including sack races, egg and spoon, tunnel ball, skipping, and three-legged races.

Holy Rosary Primary School principal Paul Dullard said there had been recent changes to educational boundaries which meant the three schools no longer officially met on the playing field.

“The district schools have traditionally come together for the McIvor athletics day,” he said.

“There’s been changes in that, but we still come together as a group for the old-fashioned games.

“It’s meant to be a fun day and the kids will get to know each other from around the district, although some know each other already through outside activities.

“The teachers get to know each other as well and it’s a beautiful place to have it down here at Barrack Reserve.”

Heathcote Primary School principal Kate Ballantyne said it was good for students to experience something different.

“Our very first McIvor Old-Fashioned Games day has worked beautifully today,” she said.

“It’s been lovely to have the kids all mixed up in different age groups and different schools, and we’re just having fun without having to plug in or login to a device.

“There are lots of happy people, lots of smiles and it’s been a lovely day.”