Much has been written about Gulgong’s early education, the date 1868 has been quoted in many cases and has appeared in the book "Government Schools of New South Wales 1848-1998—150 years". In 1868, Gulgong was not as we know it today but was a property named Gulgong, owned by A.J. Liddington, on the western banks of the Cooyal Creek, just north of the now Home Rule.
The 1868 school on the property called "Gulgong" would most likely have been a half-time school, it was opened in February 1868 and closed in December 1868. In 1869 gold was found at Two Mile Flat and most of the population flocked there. Two Mile Flat was to be a village called Warburton.
[The school began with 31 pupils (20 boys and 11 girls); it was non-vested and the first teacher was Mr Arthur Costray. At its first inspection the school was deemed to be substandard. It closed at the end of 1868 and it was not until 1872 that the council for education instructed an architect to draw up plans for the new Gulgong Pubic School.
On 7 July 1873 a site comprising 2¼ acres of land was aquired by Government grant. This land was bounded by Belmore, Stott and Bayly Streets. The new school had three separate departments: "Boys", "Girls" and "Infants" and was opened in 1874. The building was vested and inspectorial reports reveal that both building and equipment more than satisfied the standards of the day.
Source: Win Rowbotham]
When gold was found on Red Hill in 1870, and a goldfield was proclaimed, this became Gulgong and the property "Gulgong" was renamed "Old Gulgong" and still carries that name today.
The original "Gulgong", a property owned by Liddington.
Source: Parish Maps
Source: Parish Maps
By late 1871 the need for a Public School was fairly obvious and a fully competent teacher was in great need, there were at least a thousand children on the goldfield who were not attending any school. As there was little chance of collecting the necessary funds to build a suitable school, the Church of England offered their church to be used as a school, the building was admirably suited for a school and it was hoped it would not be required for any length of time.
In the early period of the gold rush, education was provided by the Catholic Church and a hoard of dubious private schools. As was the case in every needy thing on the field a Committee was formed to press the Government for a public school. After many setbacks, false starts and disappointments a school was finally built in Belmore Street between Stott and Nandoura Streets and was known as Aldridge’s Paddock.
Site of first Pubic School
Source: Parish Map 1887
Current Public School site, 1939 map
Source: Parish Map 1939
The building was constructed by Charles Lillington. Arthur Hartley, a local architect, drew up the plans and the new school was opened on Anniversary Day, January 26, 1874. It was a long L-shaped, weatherboard building, facing north.
Herbert Farr was the first Headmaster, who held this position at least until 1876. He was assisted by Miss Pyne. R J Hinder was appointed in 1876. As a bachelor, Hinder leased the school residence to Mr T E Mills (Later owner of the All Nations Hotel) and then arranged to live and board with Mills' family.
By 1888, the old school was completely inadequate for the needs of the children in the town and the school residence was unfit for habitation.
In 1890 an application was made for the erection of a new school at Red Hill but suffered a major seback when the Mines Department vetoed the application for a two-acre grant of land, stating that it was still a goldfields.
However this problem was overcome and the site was granted. The new teachers' residence, which was the first to be erected in Scully Street at the corner of Robinson Street, was occupied in October 1891 by Mr. Alfred Lambert, the Headmaster, who occupied this position for twenty-six years.
Source: Gulgong Pioneers Museum
The new school was constructed for a total cost of £1,292 sterling and was opened in 1892, the old premises were vacated on August 23, 1893, when all the pupils were transferred to the new school. As a reminder of the old school, the bell and its post were removed to the new school grounds. The old site was disposed of at auction to Mr. Blanchard for the sum of £155.
Gulgong Public School, 1897
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 13 Feb 1897 Page 28
Source: Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1919) Sat 13 Feb 1897 Page 28
In February 1900 Miss Husband, who had been in charge of the Infants Department for the past seven years, resigned owing to ill health, Miss Menchin was appointed to replace Miss Husband in March. Messrs Barton and Hohnhurst completer their painting and repair contract in June, the extensive work costing over £90. In December an extra two weeks holidays were granted by the Government owing to the inauguration of the Australian Commonwealth.
In May, 1901 the District Inspector of Schools Mr. J.P. Rooney, examined the school and as usual the various classes passed with flying colours.
First and second class pupils at the Public School in Gulgong, N.S.W. - early 1900s
Source: Flickr
In January 1904, the Headmaster Mr. Lambert was teaching shorthand, he was also burdened with extra work as there has been no lady teacher appointed to take charge of the Infants Department, as Miss Menchin resigned to be married to Mr. John Spears. Then in February Miss Crimmings was appointed Head Mistress of the Infants School with Miss J. Fletcher as her assistant. September 1904, Miss Crimmings took her departure from Gulgong Public School and took up duties at the Gundagai Public School, she was replaced by Miss Ritchie.
Gulgong Public School, 1907
Mr Lambert Headmaster
Source: The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912) Wed 12 Jun 1907 Page 1513
Source: The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912) Wed 12 Jun 1907 Page 1513
Mr. Lambert was succeeded by Mr. G.A. Lewis in 1914. Mr. Lewis applied for the school to be classed as a Superior Public School, but his request was refused. The school remained a fifth-class school until 1918 when it became a fourth-class school.
A new portable classroom was completed in September, 1916 at a cost of £189. By 1917, the bell post had become unsafe and was replaced; a tennis court was constructed above the school on the southern side, in later years it became the netball court also a cutting table for the sewing class and two new manual arts benches were acquired.
Gulgong Public School, 1916
School travelling dental clinic, Gulgong, 1916
______________________________________
June 1918 - Breaking UpAt the break-up on Friday last, Miss Florrie Bayliss was farewelled as she was leaving for Hereford House Training College. On behalf of the senior girls and boys, Miss Elsie Hensley made the presentation of a very beautiful silver mounted bag and little Ena Drew gave her a box of chocolates. The headmaster spoke in high terms of Miss Bayliss in and out of school, stating that she was a girl of strong character and congratulated her on her success in passing her exams.
June 1918 - Extension of Playground RefusedThe following communicating from the Hon. W. G. Ashford, addressed to him by the Under Secretary, Department of Education, regarding a request for the extension for the Gulgong Public School playground:-
Sir—In reply to your representations on behalf of the Gulgong Parents and Citizens Association relative to the extension of the Public School playground at Gulgong, I have to inform you that a communication has been received from the Department of Lands intimating that the dedication of the proposed land for public school purposes would be objectionable in the interests of mining in view of the proposal for further mining developments on the land in question. It is further stated that the matter will be re-considered in twelve months time.
July 9, 1918 - Arbor Day at the Public SchoolFor some day previous to this, active preparations had been carried out by the boys and in some parts the digging was very rocky, the digging was by no means easy—but the young workers performed their task in a very creditable and cheerful manner.
Trees were planted by Mrs. Wade Gudgeon [Mayoress] Mr. A.E. Brigden [President of the P & C and Mrs.Brigden, and the following pupils—Alice Murray [baby of the school] Daphne and Gwen Blanning, Fred Martin, Mervyn Wallace, Rex Huxley, Alice Jones, Tom Spring, Harry Campbell, E. Saunders, Alma Watts and May Gibbs.
School prizes were given out to the following:-
Special Class: Eddley Gardiner [Dux], 6th class—Alfred Brigden, 5th Class—Henry Spicer, 4th class—Alice Jones, 3rd class Annie Hooke, 2nd class Edith Bayliss, 1B—Doris Oldfield, 1A—Eric Hall
Competition winners—Warwick Saunders, Nellie Stewart, Garry Spring, Alf Brigden, Coral Highfield, Maude Gudgeon, Ethel Campbell
October 1 1918Gulgong Teachers’ Association—Mr. E. A. Drew presided over the following members—Messrs Taylor, Noonan, Bleechmore and G. Bisley [Hon Sec]. Apology from Mr. Jay who was unable to attend.
Public School Notes
The school broke up on Friday for Michaelmas vacation—one week.
The newly formed Junior Red Cross Circle arranged a very pleasing concert for the afternoon, the majority of the children attending in the main room to hear it. The concert realised £2/10/-.
The quarterly examination were finished during the week and there was keen rivalry in each class for the first three places.
Following are the results:—
- Special Class: Eddley Gardiner 1, Maud Gudgeon 2, Ken Watt 3
- 6th class: Alf Brigden 1, Harry Campbell 2, Una Hasenkam 3
- Lower 6th class: H. Spicer 1, Grace Last 2, Les Martin 3
- 5th class: Frank Foster 1, Linda Brigden 2, Alice Jones 3.
- 4th class: Phyllis Thomas 1, Rex Huxley and Victor Davis 2, Norman Rheinhart 3
- 3rd Class: Tom Spring 1, Francis Wade 2, Mary Baldwin 3
- 2nd class: Edie Bayliss 1, Mary Gibbs 2, Edward Foster 3
- 1st class: Rita Thompson 1—1B Clive Avery—2B, Zena Terry 1A.
After the Great War 1914-18, many schools throughout the state wished to install Honour Rolls and Gulgong was no exception. The Gulgong Parents and Citizens Association made the presentation at a special ceremony held on December 23, 1919 in honour of 81 ex-pupils who had volunteered for active service, eleven were killed and four Military Medals were won
November 18, 1918 - Public SchoolThe Public School circle of the Junior Red Cross now numbers 50 members. The girls are actively engaged in making soldier’s ‘housewives’, neat little wallets filled with all the necessaries for a soldier’s needs in mending and repairing. 10 dozen eggs were collected on egg day, sold and the money was used to purchase requisites for the girls sewing.
The school is very grateful to Messrs Jas. Loneragan and Co., for the donation, through Mr Baldwin, the manager, for the very useful contrivance for sharpening pencils.
During the quarter many fine pictures have been hung in the school, they are beautifully mounted and framed.
The honour roll subscriptions have been started. Well-wishers of the school will have the opportunity of subscribing to an honour roll which will be a credit to them and a lasting tribute to all the brave ex-scholars who have been our heroes in the Great War.
In 1918, the town council decided to apply for a town electricity supply, the Education Department supported this application by agreeing to have nine lights installed in the school residence. However, it was not until 1924 the three lights were installed in the school itself. In winter the school rooms were heated by open fires and the drinking water was supplied from tanks installed at various parts of the main building.
January 14, 1919Miss L. Upham, teacher at the Gulgong Public School has received notice of her appointment as assistant at the Windeyer Public School—and takes up duties there on the 20th.January 21, 1919Mr. R. Bleechmore of the teaching staff at the Gulgong Public School has been transferred to the charge of the Merrendee Public School. Mr. F. French has been appointed to the Walcha Road Public School
January 28, 1919Consequent upon the recent transfers from the school the following young ladies have been appointed to fill the vacancies—Miss Ashworth [Sydney] Miss Ericson [Sutherland] and Miss F. Bayliss of Gulgong who has just complete her training at Hereford House.
Extension to Playground—Captain W. F. Dunn, MLA, communication from the Under Secretary of the Education Department—
In reply to your representation on behalf of the Gulgong Parents and Citizens Association, relative to the necessity for additional land for the Public School at that place, I am directed to inform you that applications has been made to the Lands Department, for the dedication for public school purposes of a further two acres of land adjoining the southern boundary of the existing site, and to include the necessary portion of Cooyal Street which it is understood not used. The proposed area is part of a mining reserve and the Mines Department have been asked to raise no objections to this request.February 4, 1919Q. C. Examinations—District Results—The following are the district results of the Qualifying Certificates Examinations—success at which gives entrance to the High School
February 18 1919Gulgong District Teachers Federation—Annual Meeting—held at the Public School, Gulgong last Saturday—
Mr. Drew presiding.Election of Officers: Patron Mr. D. J. Hayes, B.A.President: Mr. E. A. Drew.Vice presidents Messrs W. T. Kelly and C. Hawkins.Hon. Secretary: Mr. Geo. E .BisleyAuditors: Messrs F. Taylor and C. H. PickeringLibrarian: Miss F. Bayliss.
The secretary’s annual report was read and showed that much good work had resulted from last year’s effort.
Fee fixed at £1 per annum.
[NOTE: Mr. Charles Hawkins was the teacher at Wyaldra Creek School, his grandson Ralph Hawkins was a teacher at the Gulgong Primary School in the 1970s.]
February 25 1919
Among those who passed the Intermediate examination at the Mudgee High School are Roland Allan and Clement Hill of Gulgong and recent pupils of the local Public School. Lee Foley and ex-pupil of Wyaldra Creek Public School in charge of Mr. C. Hawkins has gained his Leaving Certificate.
March 4 1919
Successful Bursary Scholar—Gary Fitzgerald Spring [O.A.S.] has been successful in securing a bursary as a result of his examination held in November. Bursaries are awarded to scholars in order to enable them to pursue a course of higher education at a high school. They carry with them a monetary value of £30 for each year leading to the Intermediate Certificate and £40 for each of the remaining years of the school course for those scholars who are obliged to live away from home and smaller amount of £10 and £15 for those who live at home
Garry Spring was educated at the Gulgong Public School and it is intended that he will attend the Mudgee High School. He is a boy of high intellect and possesses a manliness and disposition which has endeared him to all who know him. We congratulate him and Mr. E. A. Drew his teacher.
[NOTE: Garry Spring went on to become a solicitor in Mudgee.]
March 11, 1919Gulgong District Teachers Federation—Monthly Meeting held last Saturday—those present—Misses Ericson, Ashworth and Bayliss and Messrs Taylor, Kelly, Hawkins, Pickering, Jay, Hogan, Hinder and Bisley [secretary]A decision to canvas the district with a view to getting a substantial amount of money for the Kenny Memorial Fund. All present in accord and £2.15s was subscribed in the room to show appreciation for their late secretary.Motion submitted by Messrs Hinder [Tallawang], Jay [Guntawang] and Hawkins [Wyaldra] were forwarded to the Minister and it was hoped that these would bear fruit and assist country teachers with the one bug-bear, examinations.Mr. C. Pickering [Home Rule] submitted a resolution to be forwarded to the Director of Education, requesting that the School Magazine be made so as to fit more with the scope of the class.
A vote of condolence was passed with Miss Cannell in her recent accident and with sincere wish that she would soon be her old self again.A teachers tennis committee was formed with Mr. W. T. Kelly as organising secretary.
April 1 1919At the annual meeting of the Gulgong and Parents and Citizens Association reference was made to the splendid work done at the school during the year by Mr. E. A. Drew, Headmaster.Twenty-four pupils sat for the QC examination, twenty-two passed.
The president supported remarks made by Messrs Wade Gudgeon, A. Baldwin, H. J. Gudgeon, C. J. Martin and H. McGovern.Those who attended: A.E .Brigden [President] Rev. G. Neslon Bensley, Captain Messrs H. J. Gudgeon, A .Baldwin, L. Clark, C.J. Martin, H. McGovern, E. A. Drew, W. Gudgeon, J. Baldock, Mesdames A. E. Brigden, J. Allen, E. A. Drew, H. D. Richards, Howarth, Barlow and Miss A. Snelson.Mr Drew said that he had found 90 ex-pupils, including one girl who had served in the war and £14 had been raised for the honour roll.
Miss Cannell who met with a motor cycle accident a little over 4 weeks ago has returned to duties at the Gulgong Public SchoolQuarterly Examination—Both boys and girls vie with one another for places in keen competition and in some cases promotions take place as a result of the recent examinations with some of children being put into a grade higher sooner than they expected.
Results:
- Eighth Class: Eddley Gardiner 1, Maud Gudgeon 2, Ken Watt 3
- Seventh Class: Frieda Russell 1, Una Hasenkam 2, Gladys Gudgeon 3.
- Sixth Class: Ivy Hecmorel? 1, Annie Watt 2, Nellie Oldfield 3
- Fifth Class: Alice Jones 1, Mary Baldwin 2, Carl Rheinhardt 2, Alma Watts and Rex Huxley 3.
- Fourth Class: Francis Wade 1, Arthur Gudgeon 2, Dulcie Lyons 3.
- Third Class: M. Gibbs 1, F. Blanchfield 2, Gordon Hasenkam and Ernest Noy equal 3rd
- Second Class: M. Wallis 1, A. Gardiner 2, R. Harrod 3.
- First Class: Sylvia Evans 1, Madge Boulton and Zena Ferry equal 2nd, Vida Murn 3
April 15 1919Local Peace Celebrations—Caring for the Children—Public Meeting held in the Town Hall last Wednesday evening—attendance was moderately large.
Sunday it was anticipated that churches would hold appropriate services. Monday a citizens day would be held. Tuesday would be confined to a children’s demonstration.
The mayor read a communication from Mr. P. Board, Director of Education, explaining a suggested scheme for the Tuesday. It was pointed out that the Federal Government would be unable to present the Peace Medals to the school children before the end of June.
Mr. C. L. Hawkins suggested that the children’s day be held on lines similar to those obtaining in connection with the Empire Day celebrations of a few years ago. There was a sum of £20 in the hands of the trustees out of the Empire Day celebrations and he did not see any difficulty in getting that amount, if all the schools took part in the celebrations in Gulgong.
Mr. E. A. Drew thought it would be the meeting’s duty to decide first what it intended to do for the Monday. It would be wise to have a general rejoicing among all the children on the Monday when a procession and other attractions could be held.
Mr. E.W. Boulton move that a procession be held in the morning, followed by speeches in Anzac Park and a concert and dance at night. Seconded and carried.
Appointed sub-committee—E. W. Boulton, H. D. Richards, E. A. Drew, J.J. Dowd, to attend to the arrangements.
The question of children’s day was again discussed as to what the picnic should be—much discussion on what refreshments should be served etc., then it was decided to await results to how the finances would stand the strain.
Mr. Hawkins: The consent of all the schools would have to be obtained regarding using the money over from the Empire Day celebrations.
On a motion by Drew and Dowd it was decided to hold a picnic in the showground and to invite all the schools in the district to participate.
Mayor Gudgeon stated that he could not see any valid objections against with Empire Day funds being spent on Peace celebrations.
Mr. Hawkins: It is necessary first to draft out a scheme acceptable to the schools. I don’t like the last resolution to invite town school children and others.
More discussion to define town school children and others.
It was decided to write to the teachers of the following country schools asking them to join in with the celebrations in Gulgong—Beryl, Home Rule, Canadian, Wyaldra, Tallawang Road, Gallambine, Ulan, Stubbo and Guntawang. Teachers will be asked to collect donations in their centres in the event of parents deciding to join in the town celebrations.
A. E. Brigden said there was not £20 left over from Empire Day celebrations—the amount had been reduced to between £7 and £8 owing to a sports day having been held since. He was sure that the balance could be obtained if his co-trustees, C. A. Russell and E. A. Souter were approached—which they decide to do.
Mesdames W. Gudgeon [Mayoress], R. Jones, and Miss Snelson, Mayor, A. E. Brigden, C. J. Martin and Drew were appointed town collectors.
At the Repatriation meeting held last Tuesday, a letter was received from Mr. C. L. Hawkins, stating that a meeting of the parents and citizens at Wyaldra decided to hold a days sports on May 17 in aid of repatriation fund. It was considered to be better than conducting a stall at the big carnival. Permission was granted.
June 3 1919
Rev. G. Nelson Bensley offered a prize for the most original story some weeks ago to the higher classes at the Gulgong Public School. The following were present to the winners—Ken Bleechmore 1, Eddley Gardiner 2 and Freida Russell was favourably commended for her work.
July 22 1919 - Victory—Distribution of Peace Medals—at Gulgong Public School.
An interesting function took place at the Gulgong Public School, last Friday morning, when the Peace Medals were distributed to 240 children. There were a number of parents.
Mr. A. E. Drew, after the National Anthem had been sung, said that they had met that morning without a number of the little members of the school. They had before them about half the school, and all knew that the absence of the others was due to the influenza and for that those present were very sorry, because he would like every child to be able to remember the day, the great day by which children were to remember the great war. He did not propose to call on anyone to make an address, but he would, at the request of the Celebrations Committee, read for them an address, written by Mr. C. W. Bean, who was Australia’s official correspondent at the war, who had recently returned. He hoped the bigger children at the school would be able to enjoy the address. The little ones might not be able to understand some of the address but for all, there was something in the address of which they could feel proud. Mr. Drew said he intended to have the address framed.
He then read the address:
The Great War, 1914-19
by
Mr. C. E. W. Bean
Official war correspondent with the
Australian Imperial Forces
Written at the request of the Commonwealth Peace Celebrations Committee:
At the conclusion the gathering sang two verses of the ‘Dove of Peace.’
At this stage the medals were distributed to the children by the teachers, parents and others present. The medal is attached to a piece of red, white and blue ribbon and bears the following inscription: ‘Victory, Triumph of Liberty and the Peace of 1919. One either side of a floral wreath is a sailor and a soldier.
On the reverse side is the Angel of Peace and the inscription ‘Peace, 1919, Australia.’
The children were in great glee upon receiving the medals. Mr. Drew advised the children to put their names on the medals, lest they should be lost at any time and they could be returned to the holders.
The Rev. G. Nelson Bensley spoke and he reminded the children that the giving of the medals had been made possible by the sacrifices of our men and he urged them to retain the medal in memory of the noble deeds of our brace men. In the future when they looked at the medal they would be able to step high in the same brotherhood as those who went forward in 1914-15-16-17-18 and if the call ever came to those in the room he felt sure there would be no cold-footers at the Gulgong Public School and they would be ready to do their duty when the time came. [Applause]
The gathering stood with bowed head for a few minutes in memory of the fallen
The thanksgiving Hymn for Peace and cheers were given to King, Peace, and those who brought about Peace and two verses of the National Anthem were sung. Miss Connell presided at the piano during the proceedings.
The Reverend and Mr. H. J. Baldwin the distributed sweets and nuts to the children.
______________________
By the early 1920s the school was in urgent need of remodeling and additions in order to cope with accommodating the children. By 1922, what was the Home Science Room and now the Kitchen was completed.
In 1923, owing to a decline in attendance the school was once more reduced to fifth-class status, despite the vigorous protest of the then Headmaster, Mr. E.A. Drew. Mr. Drew obtained approval for the adoption of the Intermediate Certificate Course [C], a commercial course offering business principles and shorthand which he considered would satisfy the requirements of the district pupils.
The matter was place before the Parliament by Mr. Wade Gudgeon, former Mayor of Gulgong, on behalf of the parents and Citizens Association and as a result of this the Department agreed to make alterations and additions at a total cost of £2,688 the work was completed on April 21, 1924.
The requirements of the children were also starting to alter, by late 1924 cookery classes had been established. A suggestion was also put forward that a foreign language be included in the school curriculum, but this failed for obvious reasons.
A separate Manual Arts room was urgently needed, a timbered classroom was removed from Kandos to Gulgong Public School in 1929 and when another classroom was needed the old school from Stubbo was removed to Gulgong.
The school playground was very rough and the large jagged rocks were the cause of many accidents to the children. In 1931, under the guidance of the Headmaster, Mr. L. Swan, the Parents and Citizens’ Association leveled the playground by voluntary effort. Also at this time, more trees were planted to make the grounds more attractive. Up until 1953, the playgrounds were still stony and rough when the area around the main school buildings, infants and girls playgrounds were sealed. Mr. Swan also introduced foreign languages as an extra-curricular activity, these being taught before and after school.
Although the school had boasted an electricity supply since 1924, it was not until July, 1934 that both the school and residence were connected with the town water supply. In 1935, the school was once more raised to fourth class status, and in 1937 separate staff accommodation was provided for the first time.
The next decade saw a continuing increase in enrolments which resulted in the school being raise as third-class in 1946, and as a second-class Central in 1952. Throughout his 18 years as Principal, from 1944 to 1962 the late Mr. Norman Playford, was hampered by the lack of space. In the latter part of his term as Principal, classes had to be taught in halls around the town which was far from being a satisfactory situation.
Mr. Playford’s continued efforts were rewarded with the official opening in December, 1959 of the new Infants School, near Stott’s Paddock, now Dunn Park, the Hon. P.D. Hills, MLA, officiated at the opening, which consisted of three spacious room in a modern brick building. This relieved the pressure somewhat, but the Red Hill School was still inadequate.
Source: Ailsa Campbell
Largely through the efforts of Mr. Leo Nott, MLA and Mr. A. J. Nebauer who succeeded Mr. Playford in 1962 a new Primary School was opened next to Dunn Park. Not only this, but extensive improvements were undertaken at the old school. The former portable timber Home Science and Manual Arts Rooms were joined together and converted into a well-equipped Home Science room and a splendid new brick building was erected further to the east end of the grounds and up on the embankment thus providing a new toilet block and a new office for the Principal was built at the western end of the old building.
The new amenities at the Primary School were opened on March 25, 1966 by the Hon C.B. Cutler, E.D., MLA, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Science at that time. During Mr. Nebaurer’s term the school gained further impetus. The old paling fence was removed and was replaced with a steel and wire construction; the approach to the school was redesigned and sealed also an avenue of trees planted along the street leading to the school which was named Tom Saunders Avenue. The trenches dug during WW2 had been filled in a few years before.
Mr. David Lusty became Principal in 1967 and the improvements continued. The old Cullenbone School was brought to Gulgong to help once again with the ever-present shortage of accommodation. Fluorescent lighting was installed in all rooms and an extension made to an existing portable to store sporting equipment. In 1971, the Library was transferred from the old Stubbo building to a room in the main building.
In 1968 the Centenary of Education was celebrated in Gulgong, there was a ball, various inspection and displays and a booklet published by the Gulgong Central School Centenary, new research proves this was a bit premature but everyone had a great time.
1972 saw Mr. Neil Adamson appointed as Principal of the school and at this time it was becoming increasingly apparent the existing facilities were once again far from adequate. Enrolments were still increasing and a shortage of space for students and teachers was a major problem. A new Secondary School was sought and the Government Architect drew up the plans for the renovation of the old school. The portables were to be removed and a double L-shaped storey building constructed, joining the original main building at the eastern end. The plans were rejected on the grounds that the old sight offered insufficient space for any further development in the future. A complete new Secondary School was requested.
The Parents and Citizens Association mounted a very rigorous campaign and by late 1974 the initial plans for a new school were completed, and the new school was to be built on the land adjacent to the existing Primary School.
Developments were still taking place at the old school, in 1973 a school canteen was installed under the Manual Arts room, this canteen catered for the Infants, Primary and Secondary Schools, a manageress was a pointed and was assisted by members of the Mother’s Club.
A Maths Science master was appointed in 1974 and Mr. Monte Buchanan was appointed Principal in 1975 and that year the school was upgraded to a first-class Central School with an enrolment of over 500, also 1975 witnessed the delivery of a new demountable classroom which was positioned parallel to the main building on the southern side.
Probably the most tragic event in the history of the school occurred in the small hours of November 21, 1975, when this old building was completely destroyed by fire. Had the alarm not been raised quickly and fast action by the fire brigade, the Home Science building would surely have been destroyed too. Some $12,000 worth of books, sports records, equipment and gear were lost not to mention the personal effects, notes and teaching aids of five staff members. No reimbursement could ever replace personal losses.
The biggest triumph for the school was in 1976 when years 11 and 12 were introduced. Two more demountable classrooms were delivered, one brand new and the other from Mudgee. Meanwhile, the final plans for the new school had been passed, the money allocated and construction began in late 1976, with a scheduled opening for February, 1978. The cost was estimated at $1.3 million which included a much-needed addition for the Infants Department of two rooms, which were completed in mid-1977 and occupied immediately.
1977 saw the appointment of a Deputy Principal and an English Master. A much-needed demountable Science laboratory was also acquired, increased office space provided by the demountables, most of the staff were able to be accommodated in their separate faculty departments, releasing the staff room as a common room area. The sports store in the old timber portable building was reorganized to also accommodate the Social Science staff and the P.E. Teacher.
By 1978 it was evident that the new school would not open until late March. Plans were made for an official opening but the builders experienced problems in obtaining vital materials and the opening was postponed. The Reunion Dinner planned for April 29, 1978, still went ahead and was a great success.
The new school was not finished until July. Monday, July 17, 1978 was the day finally chosen for the changeover, and the preceding week teachers of the various departments packed their books and equipment ready for the move. The changeover was very smooth and students and teachers alike were adept in their orientation of the new surroundings.
The new school represents a most important milestone in the history of Gulgong’s education. It is a complex in which the community, teachers and students can be justly proud. The official opening was held on September 15, 1978, by the Hon. W.F. Crabtree, MP, Minister for Lands.
NEWS ITEMS
NEWS ITEMS
1908 - Successful at Examination.
Miss Ruby McCulloch, a pupil of the Gulgong Superior Public School, was one of the successful candidates at the examination recently held for teachers of small schools. We congratulate her, and her teacher, Mr. A. P. Lambert.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 23 Jan 1908 Page 13
NEW IMPROVEMENTS COMPLETED. - MINISTER WILL PERFORM OPENING CEREMONY.
The new class rooms and general alterations to the local public school were finished during the Easter holidays and the whole building is now being used for school purposes.
Looked at from the southern side, the school is an imposing structure. Its best outward appearance faces the Red Hill, and one gets a surprise viewing it from that position. So much is hidden from the town side that many people have little idea what has been actually done. A visit to the school will give parents and citizens a pleasant surprise.
Modern school buildings are designed to give every consideration to the pupils, and the Gulgong School affords a good example in this direction. Lighting accommodation, ventilation, and comfort have received fullest consideration in the new work carried out.
There are two new class rooms, each 24ft. by 21ft., and an assembly hall 24ft. square. Each room has six windows and three high lights, with extra ventilation in the walls and ceiling. Fresh air is abundant. The walls have been plastered and in parts cemented, These are colored with paint in pleasing contrasting tones of green, the ceilings and upper walls being white. These rooms have been equipped with dual desks for the senior pupils and small tables and chairs for the infants.
The assembly hall which will be used when the whole school is massed for function days and other occasions, gives a fine entrance to the main school. It is a large, spacious room, which has two main front entrance doors and a wide passage leading into it from the main western door. There are four pairs of casement windows, and 14 fan lights to give plenty of light, and in summer time, much cool, fresh air. The soldiers' magnificent honor roll, which the P. and C. Association presented to the school four years ago, has been given a prominent place on the wall immediately in front of the entrance doors.
The old building has been completely transformed into modern class rooms except for the old-fashioned desks. The old galleries have been removed, and the floor is now on the one level. The seats have been altered to catch the best light, and the windows have been made longer and arranged to give the most light. Three extra windows have been placed on the southern side and work on the latest Austral roller system. These rooms have been partly touched up with paint and kalsomine. They can hardly be recognised as the old inconvenient and out of date rooms, which served for more than 30 years.
There is also a small staff room conveniently fitted up for office use. The old verandah and hot porches have now become a wide hall. This, besides giving plenty of air space, is used for hats and coats.
Mr. E. A. Drew, head master, who has always been a great worker in the interest of the school, has devoted hours of time and labor to make the school attractive, pleasurable, and easy for the children's work. In most of the rooms he has arranged a number of valuable pictures which he has collected since he has been in charge. These not only help to brighten the rooms but act as aids in teaching. That the children appreciate his many efforts for the school and kindly consideration for them is evident from the cheerful and ready spirit with which they helped him to carry out many little tasks which he allotted to them during the busy time of undoing and re-arranging the furniture and stock in order to make ready for the altered conditions.
Outside the building two additional lavatories have been erected for the pupils' convenience. Twelve wash basins, each with a tap attached, give sufficient accommodation for the purpose. There will be no fear of a shortage of water when all the tanks get filled, as there are 10 tanks in all - four new ones having been lately supplied.
The department has spared no expense in giving Gulgong a modern school. It is, without a doubt, a building of which everyone whose interests are with it should feel justly proud, and it is expected that a keen appreciation for it will be shown by everyone assisting in all of its activities.
The official opening takes place on May 24, Empire Day, when the Hon. Albert Bruntnell, M.L.A.. Minister for Education, will officially perform the ceremony. To this very important function a cordial invitation is extended to every citizen by the P. and C. Association and the teaching staff. The building, which is of brick, cost nearly £3,000. It was built by Mr. W. Fuller, of Dubbo, and the work speaks for itself. Throughout the whole of the job there is striking evidence of good workmanship.
Too much praise cannot be given to the P. and C. Association for pushing forward the claims ot Gulgong for better school conditions. That body can now see with much satisfaction the result of their effort. Mr. W. Gudgeon is the president, and Rev. G. N. Bensley, hon. secretary.
Source: Colleen Proctor
1924 - Empire Day Celebrations - AT GULGONG. - Assistant Director of Education Opens New School Building.
Empire Day was celebrated at Gulgong in a manner quite different from that of other years. Since last Empire Day the old Gulgong school has been transformed into a very fine and up to date building, and Empire Day was chosen as a fitting one to celebrate the opening of the new wing. The Hon. A. Bruntnell, Minister for Education, intended to be present, but illness prevented his doing so. Mr. Telfer, Assistant Director of Educaion, came along to carry out the Minister's part.
The president of the P. and C. Association, Mr. W. Gudgeon, ocupied the chair, and there was a big crowd, representing schools all round Gulgong. The chairman expressed regret at Mr. Bruntnell's inability to be present, and introduced Mr. Telfer, who delivered a very interesting address to the children, and stated that Mr. Bruntnell was deeply disappointed at not being able to atend. Mr. Telfer congratulated the head master, the teachers, and members of the P. and C. Associaion for the way they had arranged the celebiation. Mr. Telfer's adress was very interesting. While Mr. Bruntnell was lying ill, he dictated a message to the children, which will be published in next issue.
ADDRESS OF WELCOME.
Miss Edith Kelly then read the following address of welcome, and presented it to Mr. Telfer, who will tender it to the Minister: —
'We, the pupils of the Gulgong Public School, desire to extend to you our warmest welcome on this your first visit to our school. We esteem it a great honor to have you present with us on the occasion of the opening of our new class rooms and remodelling of the school. This day marks the most important event in the history of ourschool, and we shall never forget it.
The school has always been to us a place of profit and pleasure, but with the better conditions now existing, we feel a greater pride for it. From the laying of the first brick by one of our school mates six months ago, to the screwing down of the desk, we were interested in all the work that was being done for our benefit, and now we rejoice to be learning our lessons within such pleasant surroundings. We know of the good work you ___ desk and are still doing for the public schools of this State, and appreciate the consideration you gave to us in this direction.
In conclusion, we ask you to acpt our best thanks for all you have done for us and for being present at this important ceremony. With every good wish for a continuance of office as Minister for Education,
On behalf of the school,
We are,
Honorable Sir,
Yours Obediently.
EDITH KELLY.
A. E. BOULTON.
PUPIL'S ADDRESS.
Master Arthur Boulton then delivered the following address for which he was loudly applauded : —
"It is my privilege to say just a few words on behalf of my school on this very important occasion. First of all I would like to extend a hearty welcome to the Under Secretary on this his first visit to our school. We consider it a great honor to have him with us. This is also Empire Day, which we rejoice to celebrate each year as it comes around. We all like to express our loyalty to the Empire and show how proud we are to live under the British flag. Our Empire was not built up in a day, it is the growth of many years. During that long period of construction there has been much work ___, and it is to the credit of our ancestors that our Empire received such a splendid foundation. The examples of strong, men have acted as beacon lights throughout the long centuries in which there has been not only joy but sadness. Such as Drake, Blake, Nelson and Beatty on the sea, and Marlborough, Wellington, Roberts and Kitchener on the land, have all shown by their deeds that they love the Empire. Not only these men but writers thinkers, inventors, orators and statesmen have all done their share in the making of an Empire respected all over the world. The deeds of brave men always appeal to us in history. The duty of we boys and girls and men and women can be defined in one quotation : 'live pure, speak true, right the wrong.' "
OTHER SPEECHES.
The Mayor, Ald. H. Gudgeon, expressed pleasure at seeing such a representative gathering of citizens and children, and advised the children when they thought of Empire Day to always think of it as something that stood for truth, liberty and justice. The Mayor also praised the splendid work that the head teacher and staff were doing.
Mr. A. Baldwin eulogised the head master and staff of the Gulgong Public School. They had Mr. Drew, not only a teacher, but one whose personal qualifications appealed to them. They esteemed him very highly. Mr. Baldwin also expressed his pleasure at being present at the Empire Day celebrations.
Mr. E. A. Drew said he was particularly pleased to see so many present. It was the greatest achievement since he had been head master. When he first came to Gulgong the school was one of four walls, unpleasant looking, and unattractive. For the good of the children he took it upon himself to do something to make their lives happier, and to-day he saw accomplished what every teacher liked to see.
Mr. Drew thanked the Mayor and Mr. Baldwin for their remarks in reference to himself and staff. It had been a pleasure to them to do what they could. He thanked them for their assistance, and the P. and C. Association for its splendid work.
Mr. A. Croft said that he wanted to see a rural school at Gulgong. The old system of qualifying certificates was a failure, as about one-third of the parents of the children were unable to send them to a high school. Mr. Croft also urged that the department should give the P. and C. Association more encouragement to improve the surroundings to the school.
Mr. A. Baldwin then presented Mr. Telfer with a nugget of gold as a memento of his visit. Mr. Telfer, in accepting it, said that he would always cherish the gift. The Mayor then handed to Mr. Telfer a nugget for the Minister for Education. This nugget was kindly given to the P. and C. Association by Mr. Jack Erickson. of the Post Office Hotel.
Apologies were received from Mr. J. Dowd, Rev. C. Allen and Rev. Father Cooney. During the morning, patriotic choruses were rendered by the scholars, and were loudly applauded for their efforts. The singing of the National Anthem closed the morning proceedings.
THE CHILDREN'S SPORTS.
During the afternoon children's sports were held on the ShowGround, and although the day was bitterly cold, there was a big attendance. The most attractive display, however, was the turythmics display by about 40 girls. It was a very clever achievement, and when they had completed the strenuous exercise the big crowd showed appreciation by loud applause. The Maypole display was another star attraction, and in this the girls again acquitted them selves creditably. The boys were put through a series of drill, All the displays were very fine, and showed parents varied practical aspects of education. The Gulgong Citizens' Band rendered selections during the after noon which were greatly appreciated.
THE SCHOOL CONTINENTAL.
At night a continental was held. The building was brilliantly lit up by electricity and artistically decorated. Every classs room was in use for some part of the show. The main hall was festooned with streamers of the school colors, and contained the sweets and jumble stalls. The infants' room was turned, as it were, into a beautiful garden. Glorious flowers, which came from far and near, were in
profusion. Carnations and chrysanthemums and sweet peas were conspicuously attractive. These filled one stall while vegetables and produce of various kinds filled another. Two rooms were used for refreshments. A concert was held in the largest room and dancing took place after it. In front of the school a stage was erected for telescopic observation of the planets. Many people took advantage of this and saw wonders they had never seen before. The concert was one of the side shows. Two sessions were held in order to accommodate the big crowd that had assembled — first the children, of whom there were over 250, and then over 200 adults. An attractive programme was arranged, and the children performing excelled themselves in their many items, their training reflecting great credit on the teachers. The dance was very popular.
During the evening a vote of thanks was accorded all the work ers and the teaching staff for their untiring efforts to make the day enjoyable and memorable. The proceeds, which will be used for school purposes, amounts to over £6o.
Stall holders were: Jumble, Misses Floyd, Cavell, Wild, Campbell; flower, Mesdames E. A. Drew, G. N. Bensley, H. J. Baldwin; produce, Mesdames F. Tomlinson, Black, Price, Laing, G. Blanning; sweets, Mesdames F. Boulton, Webster, McDonald, Robins, Baldwin; refreshments, Miss Snelson, Mesdames Ramsay, Lenard, Mason, Gibbons, Manusu, Barnes, Casey. Dancing, Mesdames Robins and Webster. Judging sheep's weight, Messrs. Blanning and Baldwin. Telescope, Messrs. E. Boulton and H. J. Baldwin. Mr. G. N. Bensley, as secretary, and Mr. W. Gudgeon as president of the P. and C., and Mr. Drew, head master, were very prominent workers, and did all they possibly could to make the show a great success. Mr. A. Ramsay, F. Tomlinson, F. Tomlinson, jnr.. and Mr. R. Dodd, also gave valuable service besides the senior boys of the school.
Source: Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 29 May 1924 Page 11
Red Hill School
Source: Libby Sills
Red Hill School
