The school community at Good Shepherd Primary School, Amaroo, has generously donated three trailer loads of furniture to residents of Cobargo who lost their homes and businesses in the summer bushfires. In a combined effort with the Holy Spirit Parish in Gungahlin, over $20,000 was collected along with quilts that were hand-made by parishioners.

Diana Jones, coordinator and classroom support teacher at Good Shepherd, organised the deliveries of ladders, refrigerators, office chairs and bookcases to those in need. Diana has a special connection to the town of Cobargo, having grown up there on her family’s farm and experienced the devastation first-hand as the bushfires threatened their property on New Year’s Eve.

“Receiving cash and tangible provisions months on from that fateful night has helped the fire-affected folk of the Cobargo region move on with the strength and tenacity that is nearly a prerequisite for the postcode,” said Diana.

Brad and Gail Rayner, owners of Coolagolite Mechanical, were recipients of office furniture from Good Shepherd, as well as a donation of a Corghi Wheel Aligner and Tyre Changer purchased with the raised funds from the Holy Spirit Parish.

“It is rare that I am speechless but the generosity and support of Good Shepherd and the Holy Spirit Parish has been incredible,” said Brad.

“The support from wider communities, particularly Canberrans, has been constant and humbling,” said Diana. “Knowing that the community is still in the thoughts and prayers of many, despite COVID-19, means more than you can imagine,” she said.

“Nine months on, and yes the grass is greener, the town is cleaner, but the nights are long when you are reliving sheer fear,” said Diana.

“I ask that you keep praying for the wonderful folk of my little hometown.”