Carrathool Public School will mark its 130 year anniversary on Saturday, November 2.

The Carrathool township and its school came into existence as the result of the building of the railway line from Yanco to Hay, which was opened in March 1882.

The old village had been located on the Murrumbidgee two-and-half miles to the south. 

Following the opening of the railway station, settlement concentrated there, and the first sale of land in the new township took place just after the opening of the school in 1883.

Anniversary organiser Sue Woods said they were hoping to see some old and new faces return for the celebration.

“We are hoping for a good turn out,” she said.

“Many people have moved away, which has made it hard to contact them to let them know it’s on.

“If we can get between 50 to 100 people we’ll be happy.” 

The celebration starts at 1pm at the school, followed by afternoon tea at the Carrathool Family Hotel. 

On arrival visitors will be able to view classroom displays and memorabilia. 

There will be merchandise for sale (stubby holders, key rings, magazine and commemorative pavers). 

All visitors are welcome to have their handprints painted on a water tank with their names in bright colours.

At 2pm there will be a welcome followed by a student performance and presentation. 

A tree planting of one tree for each decade will follow this.

Afternoon tea is expected to commence at around 2.30pm at the Carrathool Family Hotel, where there will be speeches and the cutting of the cake.

Everyone is welcome to attend. 

For more information contact the school on 6993 5143.