A day filled with Joy at Bunnaloo Public School

“I’ve been here since 1986,” she said.

“When I started it was three hours a week and the hours gradually increased as the number of students increased.

“I’ve seen many changes during that time, both in the farming district and associated with the school, and numbers increased rapidly during the late ’90s through to the early 2000s.”

Mrs Rinaldi was given a fond farewell by the staff and students, with the event coinciding with the end of term three and the school’s open day.

She said the school was in capable hands with colleagues who inspired one another and reflected on the friendships developed as part of the Bunnaloo Public School community.

“During my time, I have met some truly wonderful people. I consider (teacher) Lisa Cockayne one of my closest friends and we still catch up for dinner,” Mrs Rinaldi said.

As for what awaits in retirement, Mrs Rinaldi said despite some additional free time, she would continue to stay busy.

“My family operates a farm with crops and stock. While I may be retired, I now call myself a grandma on call, who’ll be more than happy to pick up my granddaughter from school,” she said.

Bunnaloo Public School principal Darren Devereux thanked Mrs Rinaldi for her fine service.

He also spoke of the school’s commitment to providing an outstanding education to its students.

“Only a few months ago we had a former student who attended the school in 1943 and, at 93 years old, was talking with the students about how school was when he was a student here,” Mr Devereux said.

Mrs Rinaldi said the school was closing in on a significant milestone.

“Bunnaloo will celebrate its 100 years in four years, coinciding with a book commemorating a distinguished history. That will preserve the history of Bunnaloo Public,” she said.