Preschool chalks up 50th

By Tania Martin
EMERALD Preschool recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with an afternoon tea.
On Saturday, 8 October, past and present students and teachers gathered at the preschool for a trip.
Shire of Cardinia Emerald Ward councillor Graeme Legge welcomed everyone with former teachers Helen Hartnell and Didy Westerveld then unveiling a plaque.
Emerald Preschool committee member Lisa Hall said the Hartnell family also made and donated a fantastic seat bench which is located at the front of the school’s building.
She said the materials for the bench were donated by Tim Robinson of Steel Guard and James McConachie of Emerald CoOp Mitre 10.
The story of the Emerald Preschool began in 1952 when a play group opened at the Emerald Mechanics Institute Hall.
But it was not until September 1955 that the preschool opened.
It was named the Nellie Exley PreSchool Centre, after the late Nellie Exley who was the drivingforce behind the kindergarten.
An extension opened in 1977 called the Nell Davies Wing, which is now used by the threeyearold group.
The section was named after Nell Davies who served on the preschool committee for a number of years, including the year the new wing was opened.
A volunteer committee of management has managed the preschool since 1955.
Ms Hall said a history book detailing some of the history of the preschool was read out on the day.
“The book was a great attraction, and copies are now available at the preschool for anyone who is interested,” Ms Hall said.