Wyreema State School, threatened with closure just a few years ago, has gone on to become a growing facility in a growing area and last Saturday the community came together to celebrate the school’s 130th birthday.

Those taking part in the event included current and past students, current and former staff, parents, members of the community and various dignitaries including Member for Condamine Pat Weir, Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald and Councillors Carol Taylor, Kerry Shine and Trevor Manteufel.

The president of Wyreema State School P&C Association, Andrea Carthoys was M.C. and welcomed guests.

She introduced student Alicia Sly who offered an Acknowledgement of Country before the school choir gave an excellent rendition of the song Count On Me and the school’s own song Wyreema Warriors.

Mayor McDonald officially opened the celebrations.

He spoke of the importance of schools.

“Small schools are the heart of our community, where life-long memories are made,” the Mayor said.

He showered praise on those who have in the past and continue today to maintain the standard of the school.

“For 130 years, Wyreema State School has been a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for children,” he said.

Member for Condamine and Speaker in the Queensland Parliament, Pat Weir, was also full of praise for the school.

“Seeing what the school and district is now, the school will only continue to grow,” he said.

Mr Weir also acknowledged the work of the school’s P&C Association.

“You can’t underestimate the contribution the P&C makes,” he said.

Principal Sharon Wilson had returned to the school just two weeks earlier, having been a teacher at Wyreema 25 years ago.

Mrs Wilson pointed to her family’s association with the school – her husband David had been a previous principal and, as they reside in Wyreema, her children attended the school.

She paid high tribute to the work of the P&C over many years and its putting together the 130th year celebrations.

Mrs Wilson ended her address by telling students, “…you are the reason we are here.”

The oldest surviving pupil, 95-years-old Eric Folker, was in attendance and his son Warren read a speech prepared by Eric, and judging by his school tales he did well, to survive!

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 23 October 2025.