First school fundraiser an "outstanding" success

Remarkables Primary School’s first ever fundraiser proved an outstanding success on Friday night (November 12), raising approximately $40,000 for the new school.

More than 180 guests enjoyed food, wine, music and dancing – along with a fascinating presentation from legendary mountaineer and expedition leader Peter Hillary – in the school hall, decked out for the night with an ethereal snow and ice mountain theme.

Mr Hillary, who returned from a Himalayas trek only two weeks ago, gave a funny and insightful presentation about some of his father’s lesser-known exploits, growing up in the Hillary family, father-and-son outdoor adventures, and the continuing importance of Sir Edmund Hillary’s work.

Earlier in the day he had taken every single pupil at the school, aged from five upwards, for an ‘expedition’ up the slopes of the Remarkables mountain range, an experience he described as “very special” for him and them.

Parents and friends of the school gave him a standing ovation at the end of his presentation.

The evening was organized by the Remarkables Parents Association and chairman Paul Schoenbachler said it had been a “huge success”.

“After months of planning, hundreds of phone calls, mega amounts of emails, long meetings, late nights and thanks to a huge amount of community support, it couldn’t have gone better,” he said.

“We had a really strong team of RPA members who gave their all to ensuring the school’s first big “night out” went so well, and raised a staggering amount of money.

“The RPA did an exceptional job and we owe a huge debt of thanks to every single parent and member of the business community who donated time, energy, effort, ideas, stunning food and an amazing range of auction items.”

The exact amount of money raised will be known when all costs are accounted for. Money raised from the evening will go towards buying much needed sunshades for the school surrounds and playground, and resources and books for the learning centre.

The school would also like to thank auctioneer Richard Stringer who did an amazing job and also performed into the night with his band Groova.