STATUS QUO MCMLIX

This publication presents the schools of the Ballina Inspectorate at this time – Education Week, 1959 – and their origins.

TULLYMORGAN PUBLIC SCHOOL

Tullymorgan is a fourth class school in the forest, rather isolated from the other schools in the inspectorate, with an enrolment of 12 pupils. Most of these people ride bicycles to school, with distances up to three miles. The school site is extensive, well-grassed and eminently suitable for a small school.

The school has occupied several sites in the locality since it was first begun in 1834. Its first position was at Cormick's Creek and was a half-time school only. This situation met the needs of the community of that time, but following a shift of population, moved with the population, the lessons being given in sheds and halls, and even houses. The present position, situated nine miles from Maclean and eleven miles from Lawrence, was chosen in 1920, and the school as it stands today was built in that year. Within three years a residence was provided for a married teacher.

The fortunes of the school, in respect to population, have been up and down. However, despite the small numbers, the parents and citizens have combined into a very active and interested Parents and Citizens' Association, which assists the teacher in the organisation of functions held during the year. These include an Empire Day picnic and bonfire and a Christmas concert. Other notable achievements of the P. and C. have been the erection of a weathershed for pupils in 1955 and the replacement of the main front fence of the school and the playground. The pupils are fortunate in having such an excellent playing ground. A tennis court is also available for use.

The present teacher is Mr. L. R. Spargo, who succeeded Mr. Charles Hoade, now the teacher-in-charge at Pearce's Creek. Mr. Spargo was appointed to Tullymorgan in January, 1959.