Leanne Aitken
… this book dates back to 1875, when Stowport was first settled by the Rutherford family …
IN February 1957, the Natone Area School opened its doors for the first time to over 200 very excited students. The small, two roomed State Schools at Stowport, Natone and Upper Natone had closed their doors in December 1956, to allow all students to attend this large, new, modern, state-of-the-art Area School, which was able to offer a high standard of educational opportunities to each child.
On 10th & 11th March 2007, a School Reunion will be held at Natone Primary School to celebrate the milestone of this 50th Anniversary. Former students, teachers, staff and anyone else associated with one of the above four schools, are all welcome to attend the largest School Reunion which Natone has ever seen.
To celebrate this wonderful milestone, a professionally printed 400 page book has been compiled by Leanne Aitken and Karen Bramich, being the first comprehensive historical record about our schools, pioneer families, community organisations, buildings and many other topics. A book launch will be held on Thursday 8th March at 7pm at the King of Burnie Hotel, with guest star Ronnie Burns.
“Our Schools & Pioneer Families – A History of Stowport, Natone, Camena & Upper Natone”, this book dates back to 1875, when Stowport was first settled by the Rutherford family. It contains information about the arduous task by our pioneer families of clearing the heavily timbered countryside, the homes they constructed, farming the land, and their skills for basic survival. It explores the lives of the children who attended each school and the growth of the community to the current day. The book also contains many family histories from the local pioneer families.
Local sporting heroes are mentioned in this book, as well as Dame Enid Lyons (former student & Monitor at Stowport State School), and many other well known local identities.
Books are now available to the public and are selling fast. There will only be a limited number available for sale, so phone Leanne Aitken on 6431 1906 to reserve your copy.
The 50th Anniversary Reunion Committee have worked hard behind the scenes to organise a fantastic Reunion weekend (10am — 4pm on Saturday & Sunday). So come along — enjoy the many historical displays, then sit down afterwards for a drink, something to eat and a chat. And don’t forget the social evening on Saturday, 10th March starting at 7.30 pm, with live entertainment, catering for all age groups. Mark these dates on your calendar!