Fete season bursts into bloom

Tucked between the toy stall and the cakes, two Year 4 boys proudly showed their entrepreneurial streak at the St John Vianney fete on Saturday.

Thomas and Oliver Doyle used a 3D printer to make fidgets, trolley tokens and worry stones.

“We saved up our pocket money and walked the dog so we could get the printer,” Oliver explained.

“Lots of people bring fidgets into class, so we thought it would be popular.”

They were right. The toys sold out midway through the fete, leaving the twins free to explore the rest of the event.

“There are so many things you can do!” Thomas exclaimed as the pair darted off in excitement.

Acting Principal Matt Egan-Richards said it was wonderful to have the school community back together.

“SJV is well known for its family spirit, and the community was excited to be able to gather as one again,” he said.

“Our first fete in three years finally gave our families in Years K-2 a chance to participate in the fun, as well as the opportunity to participate as volunteers and helpers.”

The crown included grandparents, former students and families, former staff, and the current school community.

“A community gathering to support their school, with good, old-fashioned fun and food, is a perennial favourite,” Mr Egan-Richards said.

“It was amazing to see the broad cross-spectrum of former and present community members enjoying themselves in each other’s company.”

For the Loader family, who moved to Canberra this term, the fete was an opportunity to immerse themselves in the school culture.

“It is so nice to see a lot of the school community come together and put it on for the kids,” Prue said, smiling as her daughter Siobhan, 6, clutched an enormous teddy bear and nibbled on fresh chocolate brownies. 

Over at St Joseph’s Primary School the following day, the atmosphere was equally high as the parish and community came together to celebrate their first fete in four years. 

This small school of only 300 students attracted more than 2000 people on the day. 

“This is a true reflection that St Joseph’s Primary School is a very inclusive Catholic school for all.” principal Cameron Tarrant said. 

“It’s a place where we all belong and feel welcome.” 

Under sunny skies, families enjoyed a visit from Brumby Jack, ball sessions with NRL and AFL Canberra staff, and a momentous colour run. 

Mr Tarrant showed he wasn’t afraid of a challenge – agreeing to be duct-taped to the wall, drenched in the dunking challenge, and covered in powder during the colour run.  

“We’re a small school with a big community,” he said.

“Our fete and family fun day was everything we hoped for and more.”