MILAWA Primary School are the winners of the 2023 Wangaratta Chronicle Marathon and Fun Run 2km Primary School Challenge.
Sponsored by RJ Sanderson and Associates, the school will receive $1000 and have the honour and excitement of displaying the perpetual trophy for the next 12 months.
Milawa Primary School Principal Bron Wright said she was blown away by how many of their students and families chose to go out on a Sunday and have a run together – and in doing so, contributed to the benefit of their whole school.
"I'm so proud of our learners, for the way they love being active, having a go, and trying challenging things," she added.
"There's so much to be said for the benefits of outdoor movement on both our physical and mental wellness – and then to throw in doing this with your community both school and the wider Wangaratta area, it's amazing for our sense of belonging and connectedness.
Latest Stories
"We're excited to be back on the winner's podium; we're such a fantastic little school, full of opportunity, with much to celebrate.
Students Jack Conroy (10) and Ava Mullane (9) participated in the event on Sunday and while there are no prizes for those who finish fastest in the 2km Primary School challenge, both were top five finishers – Jack finishing 2nd and Ava 4th.
Before receiving the perpetual trophy at the school on Wednesday morning, Jack Conroy spoke to the gathered school community and representatives from RJ Sanderson and the Wangaratta Chronicle.
"We would like to thank RJ Sanderson and the Wangaratta Chronicle for their sponsorship and organisation of the event," he said.
"And a huge thank you to all of the kids and families from Milawa Primary School who competed in this event and helped us win the 2km Primary School challenge event."
In addition to the families, sports teacher Kaye O'Kane and school sponsor Meyer Mechanical Services were also instrumental in getting the whole school on board and a large number of participants to the event on the day.
Justin Timms and Cath Ward from event sponsor RJ Sanderson & Associates Pty Ltd presented the trophy to the students on Wednesday, with Justin saying that it was a privilege for their team to once again be part of the Wangaratta Marathon & Fun Run and encourage children to participate in the event by sponsoring the 2km Primary School Challenge.
"It was great to award Milawa Primary School as this year's winner of the Primary School Challenge – it's such a fantastic achievement," Mr Timms said.
"Congratulations also to the Wangaratta Chronicle and Garry Nash & Co. Real Estate for preparing such a wonderful day; it was great to see the large number of competitors across the various events.
"It not only encourages locals to be active, but brings many visitors to the area.
"Some of our staff, family and friends also help out on the day at the drink station in Cusack Street, including Ken and Marg who have been doing it for 10 years and now have it down to a fine art, so we thank them for helping out every year as well."
Bron Wright said that the school is in a 'brainstorming phase' at the moment about what they will use their prize money for.
"We're going to give our students an authentic chance to test their persuasive writing skills and give them some agency around how we spend the money," Mrs Wright said.
"Some early ideas include an indigenous bush tucker garden, a new oven for our breakfast club and cooking classes or perhaps a whole school experience such as an excursion to see the MCG and some great sports in action."
Once a decision has been made, the school will make an announcement through their usual channels.
