Avondale School Challenge students

Mr GREG PIPER (Lake Macquarie)—We've all been saddened to see the devastating impacts the recent floods have had on communities in our State's north. I'd like to acknowledge the thoughtfulness and efforts of a group of Avondale School students and teachers to help people living in Lismore. Year 9 students involved in the school's Challenge and Wellbeing program, along with teachers Donna Nevell and Christie Venegas, decided to do something practical to help families affected by the floods. A classroom discussion gave birth to the idea of putting together flood care packages, containing everything from basic hygiene products through to children's books, and delivering these packages to those in need. Students spent their own money and many hours sourcing donations from the Lake Macquarie community to ensure they had enough items to fill many hundreds of hampers. The hampers also included personal notes to flood victims, offering messages of hope and support. Challenge students said they were motivated by a desire to serve a community outside of their own, and to make a difference to people's lives. I thank them for their efforts and encourage them to keep up the great work.