The document highlights the challenges faced by Mandurang South, a small rural school, in the face of government education reforms and potential closure. Mandurang South was considered an easy target for closure under new government 'quality provision' guidelines. Despite demonstrating a strong curriculum and experienced leadership, the school faced severe staffing reductions: from two teachers plus specialist support to just 1.4 teachers for 32 students. This would require one teacher to manage 31 children across seven grades in a single classroom, raising concerns about educational quality. Parents and teachers collaborated intensively to prepare a submission proving the school's quality, hoping to meet government criteria for survival. Some parents, including former students, expressed willingness to close or merge the school if educational standards could not be maintained, while others wanted to keep it open. The school community was holding a referendum to decide its stance for an upcoming taskforce meeting. Mandurang South and its neighboring school, Mandurang Primary, originated from a split in 1875 due to the distances children had to travel. The school has a rich history, with its original weatherboard building and a notable stand of century-old trees, making it a model for rural education and a point of local pride. The most likely option discussed was merging with Mandurang Primary, which would be ironic given their historical split over a century ago.Mandurang South's situation serves as a test case for the broader impact of educational 'rationalisation' policies on small rural schools. Mr. Balmer was Head Teacher in 1875. Heintervened to stop residents from cutting timber on school grounds, preserving a notable stand of eucalypts and conifers.The school grounds are recognized for their natural beauty, attracting visitors and providing students with daily exposure to native wildlife and nature-based activities. The school offers standard facilities (oval, courts, shelter) and unique curriculum elements like "bush cooking," making learning relevant to its rural setting. Mandurang South School is valued at $50,000–$70,000, but faces closure due to economic constraints and potential staff reductions.There is concern that closure could lead to further school consolidations in the Mandurang valley, as part of a broader government education reform. The possible closure is seen as a loss to the community’s heritage and educational landscape, with uncertainty about the future of other local schools.Schools searching for a Future. Series of photos and information about Mandurang Primary School No. 1628. Pictures by Lisa Honeychurch. Written by Owen Davies. This item contains the following documents: 8091.602a Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday August 13 1993 8091.602b Part of Page 11, the Bendigo Advertiser Friday August 13 1993 8091.602c Black and White Photo of four kids playing cricket on the oval besides the school - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602d Black and White Photo of Grade Four student Gary Wilkins sitting under a pine tree, possibly reading - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602e Black and White Photo of Grade Four students "Bush Cooking" around a camp fire Left to Right: Travis Singe, Tristian Gillies, Gary Wilkins, Bill Riddell - Contact BHS for Details 8091.602f Black and White Photo Front of Mandurang South School - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602g Black and White Photo Front of Mandurang South School - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602h Black and White Photo Two men and three kids in front of the school sign. Left to Right: Brian Murdoch, Brian's daughter Ebony, John's son and daughter, Roger and Erin, and John Murdoch - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602i Black and White Photo of Mrs Bess Coghill, the former Post Mistress at Mandurang South - Contact the BHS for Details 8091.602j Black and White Photo of the school sign - Contact the BHS for Detailsnewspaper, bendigo advertiser, mandurang south, primary school