Staff and Students of Anson Street School enjoyed their annual Christmas party last week as the excitement of the Christmas holidays near, with thanks to the Orange Ex-Services Club.

The Christmas Party is a tradition that has been happening for more than 38 years. Ex-services staff and Vietnam Veterans provide a BBQ that the students enjoy before Santa arrives on a fire truck with two Firemen and delivers presents to all 140 students.

What a great way of imparting joy to the students and teachers alike, acknowledging the hard work of all throughout the year.

Anson Street School Principal, Melanie Meers said, “We are so grateful to the Orange Ex-Services for hosting our Christmas Party. They were a bit worried that Santa might not be able to get here because of the fires and the fire truck being needed somewhere else. To see the joy on the faces of our students when they met Santa was priceless. We are very lucky to have such wonderful people in the community who continue to support the students.”

President of Orange Ex-Services Club, Graham Gentles added, “We enjoy the opportunity to come and help and give Anson Street School a great day.

When you’re as much involved with the community as we are, its one of those bonuses to see the kids when they arrive to all of the food that we put on and then to see their reactions when they get to see and sit with Santa, it’s great.”

Santa even made a special trip to previous student, Heidi Kendall’s house, a very special moment for her, her family and her teachers.