Coffee Camp School 100 years on

A painting of the original Coffee Camp Public School created by local artist Dorothy Cullen.

In 1954, the flood that wreaked havoc throughout the Northern Rivers had devastating effects for the community of Coffee Camp, which suddenly found its school and hall were literally swept away.

People found scattered pieces of the hall and school along the banks of the creek as far away as Goolmangar and the hall’s piano was found perched high in a tree.

The Honour Roll from the hall was retrieved but a lot of other memorabilia was lost, including school records of attendance, photos and books.

And this is where Coffee Camp Public School is looking for your help.

On October 30 this year, Coffee Camp Public School will be celebrating its centenary with a full day of activities from 11am including a picnic launch and BBQ plus a special dinner that evening.

Organisers are now looking for anyone who has any connection to the school who would like to attend or anyone who has memorabilia they could bring along.

“One hundred years is a long time to be tracing back to find people who were involved with or attended the school, especially with the flood in 1954 having wiped out all documentation,” committee member Val Pruess said. “The committee is also looking for any photographs you may have, such as class photos, photos taken at any school functions, end-of-year celebrations, working bees, sports days etc to be used in displays and in the centenary book. You can email photos, or alternatively the committee will scan the photos for you.”

Tickets for the dinner are limited ands bookings are advised on 6689 9259. If you’d like to send through photos, email eelryan@harboursat.com.au.