Timor Primary School (No. 1207) was established in 1873 in a former gold-mining town in Victoria. The area once had a population of around 7,000 during the gold rush, but is now sparsely populated. The original schoolhouse, built in 1879-80, was a grand structure designed for large numbers of students (up to 490 at one time). The local Grand Duke mine, which operated until 1896, played a significant role in the town's history and left a physical legacy near the school.In 1983, the school began managing a four-hectare block of land opposite the school, previously damaged by mining, as an 'environment block.' By 1988, the school was officially appointed custodian of this land, now called the Timor Primary School and Community Education and Environment Reserve. The school and community have improved the reserve by installing rabbit-proof fencing, building a bridge, creating paths, adding water, installing a fitness track, and planting many trees. The reserve has become a focal point for both the school’s 26 pupils and the wider community. Timor Primary School won the Australia Trust for Conservation Volunteers-ANZ Bank Environment Improvement Competition in 1986 and received praise for its achievements and community pride. The school has also received two ANA awards for its well-maintained garden. The school has faced challenges related to its small size and has been involved in a taskforce with neighboring schools to address these issues. The local community is strongly opposed to the possible closure of the school, with visible signs of protest throughout the town. Residents, including business owners like Chris Frahn, emphasize the school's importance to the town's vitality and express concerns that closure could lead to families moving away. The school's future is uncertain, with 28 pupils expected next year. If two more students enroll, the school would qualify for a second teacher. Enrollment is projected to increase over the next five years, suggesting potential for growth. The school has gained support from larger schools and the broader community. The final decision on the school's fate will be announced by the Education Minister on October 4, following a taskforce review. The school has a 120-year history in Timor. There is mention of possible renewed gold-mining activity in the area, which could impact the town's future and potentially increase the school-age population.Schools searching for a Future. Series of photos and information about Timor Primary School No. 1207. Pictures by Lisa Honeychurch. Written by Owen Davies. This item contains the following documents and Photos: 8091.607a Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday Sept 10 1993 8091.607b Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday Sept 10 1993 8091.607c Black and White Photo of Prep pupils - Contact BHS for details 8091.607d Black and White Photo of Hilda (Teacher) - Contact BHS for details 8091.607e Black and White Photo - front is Bev Walker - Contact BHS for details 8091.607f Black and White Photo - Students playing on fallen down tree - Contact BHS for details 8091.607g Black and White Photo - School Steeple - Contact BHS for details 8091.607h Black and White Photo -Timor School Sign - Contact BHS for details 8091.607i Black and White Photo - Students playing on fallen down tree - Contact BHS for details 8091.607j Black and White Photo - School from the front - Contact BHS for details 8091.607k Black and White Photo - Part of School and three kids playing basketball - Contact BHS for detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, primary school, timor primary school