THE spirit of rural generosity was on full display at this year’s Gravesend Long Lunch, with a record-breaking $48,400 raised to support students, staff and learning opportunities at the village, nestled between Moree and Warialda.

The ‘Gravo’ community once again rallied behind its much-loved primary school, inviting friends and family from near and far to enjoy a cracking day out for the fifth Long Lunch fundraiser.

Gravesend Public School Parents and Citizens’ member Polly Quinn said the Long Lunch gets bigger and better every year.

“It was a huge success,” Mrs Quinn said.

“We had a large number of donations from very generous sponsors and achieved a record profit of $48,400.

“Guests were exceptionally giving in their support of the raffle and auction,” she said.

Held biennially and organised by the dedicated Gravesend Public School Parents and Citizens committee, the Long Lunch has become a signature event on the region’s social calendar – a celebration of country life, rural connections and the shared belief that small schools matter.

Set on the beautifully maintained Gravesend cricket oval, the marquee was decorated with fresh flowers from committee members’ gardens, while a spectacular arbour – crafted by a former student’s grandfather – created a very special and welcoming entrance for guests.

It was a day filled with thoughtful touches that reflected just how proud locals are of their school, and their commitment to its future.

The ‘Gravo’ mums received well-deserved praise for ‘making the magic happen’, with the Long Lunch committee made up of current and past Gravesend Public School mothers Treen Barwick, Loretta Brown, Polly Quinn, Amber Barnett, Hailey Barrington, Toy Barwick, Kerri-Lynn Peachey, Karen Withers and Claudia Lockhart.

A strong crowd of about 160 guests were treated to a scrumptious three-course meal by country event favourite Relish Catering, with live music from Kurt Larkham and an entertaining auction led by Paul Kelly and Antony Glynn.

“The way the auctioneers bounced off each other was fantastic. It all made for a wonderful day,” Mrs Quinn said.

Beyond the food and festivities, the gathering carried a clear purpose: to support Gravesend Public School, the heartbeat of the small but mighty village.

The school currently has 22 students, a figure that Mrs Quinn said “falls below the magic number of 26 for extra funding” from the NSW Department of Education for additional staffing support.

Over the years, the P&C’s fundraising efforts have played a crucial role in helping the school thrive, supporting high-quality education and enriching opportunities for every student.

“Proceeds from the Long Lunch have delivered tangible improvements, including an outdoor covered walkway, an alfresco kitchen used daily by students, and subsidised excursion costs to help families,” Mrs Quinn said.

“The committee works closely with the school to ensure every dollar raised makes a positive difference in the lives of each young student – it’s really important to us.

“Last year, the P&C funded a teaching position one day a week to ensure the infants and primary classes could remain separate – a model we believe is essential for quality learning. It is very much on the cards that funding could be cut again,” she said.

“We’ll keep some of this year’s funds aside to support a teaching position if the need arises, and we have covered the cost of the esteemed educational programs – MacLit Literacy program and QuickSmart numeracy program, further strengthening the education being provided.”

In NSW Parliament recently, Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan commended the hardworking committee and volunteers for their amazing efforts.

“These funds will make a meaningful contribution to the school, particularly in strengthening teaching support, whilst also assisting with infrastructure . . . all with the shared goal of enhancing learning and expanding educational opportunities for every student,” Mr Moylan said.

Mr Moylan has backed small schools, advocating for fairer support and recognition of the unique needs of rural communities as P&Cs are forced to step in to fill the gaps left by shrinking budgets.

“In terms of funding, there needs to be flexibility when it comes to small schools in rural areas. There cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach because that does not fit the reality of education in regional and rural areas,” he said.

“Small schools are incredibly important and are the heartbeat of our small villages and communities.”

The NSW Minister for Education, Prue Car, was contacted for comment regarding small schools, such as the Gravesend P&C, having to fundraise for teaching staff.

A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Education provided the following response.

“Decisions around additional offerings that may be supported by voluntary contributions are a matter for the school and its parent community,” the spokesperson said.

“This could include school communities choosing to fundraise for additional resources or staff.

“Gravesend Public School is fully funded to deliver the mandated school curriculum.”

In small communities like ‘Gravo’, the school is more than just an education setting – it’s a meeting place for families, a social hub that sparks lasting friendships, and a great source of pride.

The P&C strongly believes the school’s presence helps attract families, sustain local services and maintain the vibrancy of the village.

As rural towns continue to fight to keep services, the success of the Gravesend Long Lunch is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when small communities come together and why their futures are worth fighting for.

“Gravesend Public is a beautiful little school where students are encouraged,” Mrs Quinn said.

“They are provided with so many opportunities that I think only a small school can provide – whether it’s in the classroom, sport, cooking, music or leatherwork.

“I’ve often said the school has a similar feel to a family; we are so lucky to have it,” said Mrs Quinn.

“Thank you to everyone who supported our school at the Long Lunch – it means the world.”

Words: Ali Smith

Images courtesy of Kim Miller