Pave your way into college history
Community members are invited to celebrate Geraldton Senior College’s 75th anniversary, by securing a permanent place in the school’s history.
Named paving bricks will be incorporated into a garden at the front of the Carson Terrace campus.
Librarian Dr Glyn Parry said the commemorative garden would provide a living legacy to befit the milestone.
“We’re passing the baton on from the 50th anniversary and their time capsule, which will be opened in 2039,” he said.
“Twenty-five years from now, by the time we reach the 100th anniversary, there will be a beautiful garden to wander through and be amazed by.
“It’s our gift back to the community, to the Geraldton of the future.”
For the Thomson family, the opportunity to record their part in the school’s history was too special to pass up.
John Thomson, who attended Geraldton Senior High School in the late 60s, said he was proud to be involved with the school for more than four decades.
His wife Deb and their six children — Jason, Keegan, James, Katie, Jaxon and Blaize, the youngest who graduated last year when he was head boy, were also students.
“It’s a great school — as a parent it had a lot of opportunities for our children, with a diverse range of courses,” Mr Thomson said.
“It’s the diversity and the support network the school has for their students — the student services facilities, library resources, drama block and trade training centre.
“It’s a magnificent place.”
Dr Parry encouraged individuals and families to place an order before the closing date of May 23.
“We’d hate for people to miss out,” he said.
“Imagine wandering past the flowerbeds and finding your family name there.
“That’s just so precious.”
The Parents and Citizens’ Association are donating a paver for each 2014 school leaver.
The school was officially opened on July 22, 1939.
A 75th anniversary celebration will take place on Friday, August 1.
A founders assembly will be followed by an open day, bringing together the garden with tree planting, performances and memorabilia displays.
To order a paver, visit college reception, www.gsc.wa.edu.au or www.facebook.com/GeraldtonSeniorCollege.
(Jessica Rock graduated from GSC in 2005.
Now it’s time for the Guardian journalist, so popular with staff and readers since joining us at the start of 2012, to graduate from Geraldton.
Jess is moving to Melbourne to complete her degree in journalism. Her final stories, at least for the time being, will appear on Friday. We all wish Jess the best.)
