President of the Port Douglas State School's Parent and Citizens assocation, Ray Pittman reflects on the school's 25th anniversary celebrations held at the school on Saturday afternoon.

Hundreds of students, teachers and community members gathered over the weekend to mark an auspicious occasion in the history of Port Douglas, commemorating the opening of our primary school a quarter of a century ago.

Previous substantive principals (there have been only six since 1989), along with ex-staff, students and parents mixed with the current generation.

Foundation principal Jeff Connor travelled from Blackbutt to attend.

Matthew Smith, number one student on the register was with us and prep student Isla Wells , representing the student body came together to cut the beautifully decorated birthday cake.

Kids enjoyed the free rides, face painting, showing parents around the classrooms and school generally. 

The choir performed two songs, and a time capsule was prepared for burial, to be opened in 25 years.

Food stalls and the bar were well patronized, as were the snacks and drinks for the kids. 

The BBQ, and kinder cake stall were both very popular.

It was obvious that adults were content to sit around exchanging stories from the past and meeting past colleagues, friends and acquaintances

Thank you to the organizing committee led by past student Janice Ruffles, local businesses who assisted with donations of food, drink and raffle prizes as well as NEWSPORT and other local media who spread word of the event.

We do still have a range of memorabilia including can coolers, mugs and travel mugs, pens and coloured pencils available from the school.

And a sincere thank you to those who attended and made the day the huge success it was.