By BRIDGET COOK
AS teenagers across the state organise their Schoolies getaway, a group of St Peter’s College students are busy fund-raising and preparing for their trip to help a community in need.
A group of nine Year-12 students, along with two staff members and Father Joseph Abutu from St Agatha’s Parish, are involved in the school’s annual Immersion Program.
As part of their commitment to the program, the group has undertaken to raise much-needed funds for the Bishop Epalle Catholic School in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The program will also see the group travel to Honiara after VCE exams this year to help rebuild the community, which has been heavily affected by floods.
St Peter’s College marketing officer April Hampson said in the past the money raised had gone to one-off projects to enhance the school, but this year the need was much greater.
“Earlier this year, Honiara was inundated with flash flooding where the immediate impact was the reported 50,000 to 60,000 people being homeless,” she said.
“At least 23 people were killed, major roads and bridges were ruined, homes and properties were lost.
“Our sister school, Bishop Epalle Catholic School was impacted directly with the flash flooding claiming the life of one of their students and extensive damage to the school’s building and grounds.
Many of the students and their families have lost their homes and property and businesses.”
“Our Immersion Program students have pledged, to raise as much money as they can, to support the rebuilding process at the school.
“Students will also undertake what work they can to assist with this program while in Honiara later this year.”
A major focus of the program’s fund-raising activities is to host the annual St Peter’s College Trivia and Silent Auction Night on Friday 8 August, from 7pm.
“Students are currently sourcing and accepting donations of goods and services from local businesses and individuals for the silent auction,” Ms Hampson said.
“As this is a silent auction any goods and services are suitable for donation, small or large, expensive and inexpensive, they will all be appreciated.”
Tickets are also available for the event, with tables of 10 costing $200.
To donate goods or services or to secure a table of 10 for the trivia night contact Ms Hampson on 5990 7777.
