Goondiwindi Kindergarten and North Star Public School benefit from Inland Rail support

Goondiwindi Kindergarten and North Star Public School have both benefitted from facility upgrades after receiving support through the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) Inland Rail Sponsorships and Donations program.

Goondiwindi Kindergarten

Goondiwindi Kindergarten’s playground is now safer and softer for young children following the installation of a new soft fall play area under the swings and hopscotch area.

The soft fall play area aligns with the kindergarten’s play-based program that is supporting nearly 50 local children as they progress their learning journeys.

North Star Public School has created a new yarning circle in the shade of a large tree in the playground. The circle consists of 12 limestone blocks that create a welcome space for students to meet.

The yarning circle offers an environment to learn as a group, build respectful relationships, and pass on cultural knowledge. It brings students from kindy to Year 7 together for classes, exploration, and play.

North Star Public School P&C’s Emily Uebergang said:

“The yarning circle provides an alternative learning space for students to engage with the environment and natural surroundings.

“We are so thankful to Inland Rail and all the local suppliers who helped transform this area of North Star Public School into a beautiful yarning circle.

“The students, teachers and community are all benefitting from this amazing project.”

Stephen Jones, Inland Rail Director of Health, Safety and Environment said:

“We are proud to give back to the communities that are home to Inland Rail. The work these organisations do is instrumental to the wellbeing of regional communities.

“I encourage other non-profit groups to lodge their applications for the next round of funding.

“ARTC’s Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program offers funding between $1000–$4000 for organisations in eligible regional areas along the Inland Rail.

“The funding supports organisations that contribute to local and regional prosperity, wellbeing, and sustainability.”

“We encourage organisations to check their eligibility and apply. Please include as much information as you can, outlining the benefits and achievements your project will have to the community.”

Visit the Community Sponsorships and Donations program page for more information and access to the guidelines which explain eligibility.

For more information, phone 1800 732 761 or email ircommunitysponsorships@artc.com.au.