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his group photograph of the Grade Prep/1 class at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1998, stands as a meaningful testament to the school’s lasting impact on the Jacana community. Founded in 1959 and active until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was more than an educational institution—it was a vital hub of community life. Through decades of service, it fostered a spirit of inclusion, learning, and shared experience that shaped the lives of countless students and families. The image not only preserves the youthful faces of its students but also encapsulates the values of camaraderie, diversity, and belonging that were central to the school’s ethos. As a visual document, it offers valuable insight into the everyday experiences of school life and reflects the broader social and educational environment of Jacana during that era.

The 1998 Grade Prep/1 class photograph from Jacana Primary School holds enduring historical and cultural value as a representation of the school’s pivotal role within the Jacana community. Established in 1959 and operated until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was a foundational institution that contributed significantly to the educational and social development of the area. This image is significant not only as a record of the students and staff of that time but also as a reflection of the school’s inclusive and community-oriented ethos. It embodies the values of diversity, belonging, and collective identity that defined the school’s culture. As a visual artifact, it offers insight into the lived experiences of local families and the broader educational landscape of late 20th-century suburban Melbourne. The photograph serves as a tangible link to the past, preserving the memory of a place that shaped generations and fostered a strong sense of community connection.

A vibrant laminated colour photograph featuring a group of children and staff seated in three rows. Their names are displayed on a white panel, printed on glossy paper, accompanied by the school logo.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, ms carol taylor, 1998, jennifer salib, dylan owen-buoy, teagan nash, krystal le, breanna nash, scott gore, christopher muscat, mohammad matar, andrea ratnam, andrew knostenbergs, jocelyn towers, hung phan, jesse west, mohamad saad, kristijan mihaljev, krishna hurley - edwards, matthew welsh, elias younan, alexandria ioseka, allak hamad, vanita harris, joshua harris, mrs. pam streete, mrs. linda mostyn

This 1998 staff photograph from Jacana Primary School provides valuable insight into the history of public education in Melbourne’s northern suburbs during the late 20th century. Operating from 1959 until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was more than a place of learning—it was a cornerstone of the local community. The image captures a moment in time that reflects the school’s commitment to educational access, inclusivity, and community engagement. It illustrates the professional culture of the staff and the broader social values that shaped suburban schooling during this period. As such, the photograph serves as a meaningful record of the school’s role in fostering a sense of identity and belonging among generations of students and families.

This 1998 staff photograph of Jacana Primary School is significant as a visual record of a community-based educational institution that operated in Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 to the early 2000s. The image captures the professional and social fabric of the school at a time when public education was undergoing substantial change. It reflects the school’s enduring commitment to inclusive education, community involvement, and social cohesion. As a historical artifact, the photograph provides insight into the values, demographics, and educational culture of suburban Melbourne at the close of the 20th century. It holds cultural and social value for former students, staff, and the broader community, representing a shared legacy of learning, belonging, and local identity.

A colour photograph depicting teachers at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1998. The image is bordered by a black frame and features a white strip along the bottom edge with names of individuals neatly printed. The Jacana Primary School logo is located in the bottom right-hand corner. Photograph is laminated.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, mrs. heather faulkes, mrs. linda mostyn, mrs. vivien mcnish, ms. mary stapleton, mrs. pam streete, mrs. kaye smith, ms. carol taylor, janelle koistinen, yvonne micallef, vicki dokas, 1998

This 1997 photograph of staff at Jacana Primary School represents a poignant chapter in the history of a community-focused educational institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. Far more than a conventional staff portrait, the image stands as a historical artifact—capturing the ethos of a school that was deeply interwoven with its local community. Jacana Primary was a place where educational equity, inclusivity, and a strong sense of belonging were not just ideals but everyday practices. The photograph offers a window into the educational values, staff culture, and broader social dynamics of suburban Melbourne at the close of the 20th century, reflecting the school’s enduring impact on generations of students and families.

This 1997 staff photograph from Jacana Primary School holds enduring historical and cultural value as a visual record of a community-centred institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. The image encapsulates the school’s pivotal role in promoting inclusive education, fostering social cohesion, and shaping local identity during a period of significant demographic and educational change. As a representation of the school’s staff culture and values at the close of the 20th century, the photograph offers insight into broader trends in suburban public education, including the emphasis on equity, community engagement, and the professional dedication of educators. It stands as a testament to the legacy of Jacana Primary School and its lasting impact on generations of students, families, and the wider community.

A colour photograph depicting teachers at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1997. The image is bordered by a black frame and features a white strip along the bottom edge with names of individuals neatly printed. The Jacana Primary School logo is located in the bottom right-hand corner. Photograph is laminated.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, mrs. heather faulkes, mrs. dora aylward, mr. rob merlino, mrs. linda mostyn, mrs. vivien mcnish, mr. graham archer, ms. mary stapleton, mrs. doreen brown, mrs. pam streete, mrs. kaye smith, 1997

This 1999 photograph of staff at Jacana Primary School captures a significant moment in the history of a community-oriented institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. More than just a staff portrait, the image reflects the enduring spirit of a school deeply embedded in its local context—one that championed educational access, fostered a strong sense of belonging, and played a vital role in shaping community identity. As a visual record, it offers valuable insight into the educational culture, staff dynamics, and broader social values of suburban Melbourne at the close of the 20th century.

This 1999 photograph of Jacana Primary School staff holds considerable historical and cultural value as a visual record of a school that played a pivotal role in the educational and social fabric of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Operating from 1959 until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was more than an educational institution—it was a cornerstone of community life, fostering inclusion, resilience, and opportunity for generations of students and families. The image is significant for its ability to convey the ethos of the school at the close of the 20th century, reflecting broader trends in public education, suburban development, and community identity in Victoria. It offers insight into the people who shaped the school’s legacy and serves as a tangible link to the shared experiences and values of the Jacana community.

A colour photograph depicting teachers at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1999. The image is bordered by a black frame and features a white strip along the bottom edge with names of individuals neatly printed. The Jacana Primary School logo is located in the bottom right-hand corner. Photograph is laminated.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, ms. carol taylor, 1999, merna gamble, luba bojczuk, mrs. linda mostyn, mrs. kaye smith, david mccall, marie killender, kathryn mananis, vicki dokas, mrs. vivien mcnish, ms. milly dobricic, effie kyrpigikidis

This 1977 Jubilee Year publication was a special project undertaken by the Form 5 Politics Class at Salesian College, Rupertswood, as part of the school’s commemorative efforts to reflect on its past, present, and future. Created during a year of celebration and reflection, the project was both a civic and educational exercise, allowing students to explore the structure and culture of their school through the lens of political systems. Organised under the themes of Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches, the publication presents a unique and structured interpretation of the college’s operations and community life. It includes contributions on key aspects of the school such as the Salesian order, the Parents and Friends Association, academic and sporting programs, the media, and the Old Boys’ Association. The project reflects the educational ethos of the time—encouraging inquiry, collaboration, and pride in one’s school. It also highlights the role of student voice in shaping the narrative of the college’s history. As a student-led initiative, this publication stands as a testament to the creativity, engagement, and reflective spirit of the 1977 cohort.

This 1977 Jubilee Year publication, compiled by the Form 5 Politics Class at Salesian College, Rupertswood, is a significant historical document that captures the voice, perspective, and civic engagement of students during a milestone year in the college’s history. Created as a special project, the publication reflects a thoughtful and structured examination of the school’s identity through the lens of political systems—Legislative, Executive, and Judicial—demonstrating both creativity and critical thinking. The document is notable for its student-led authorship, its comprehensive scope—including reflections on the Salesians, the Parents and Friends Association, media, agriculture, academics, sport, and alumni—and its collaborative spirit. It offers a rare and valuable insight into how students of the time understood and interpreted the structure and culture of their school community. As a preserved artifact, this publication contributes meaningfully to the archival record of Salesian College. It not only documents the educational and social environment of the late 1970s but also highlights the enduring values of participation, reflection, and pride in community that continue to define the Rupertswood legacy.

A 27 page stapled document, with a yellow front page (cover), detailing the history of Salesian College, Sunbury to 1977.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, 1977, jubilee

This 1998 class photograph of Grade 2/3 students at Jacana Primary School captures a meaningful moment in the legacy of a community-focused institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. The image stands as a testament to the school’s lasting impact on local identity, its commitment to educational opportunity, and its role in nurturing social cohesion. As a visual document, it provides valuable insight into the educational environment, student experiences, and community values characteristic of suburban Melbourne in the late 20th century.

The 1998 class photograph of Grade 2/3 students at Jacana Primary School holds historical and social significance as a visual representation of a community-oriented educational institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. The image embodies the school’s enduring contribution to the development of local identity, the provision of accessible education, and the fostering of social cohesion within a diverse suburban context. It offers a valuable snapshot of late 20th-century educational practices, student life, and community values, reflecting broader societal trends in public schooling and suburban growth during this period. As such, the photograph is an important cultural artifact that contributes to the collective memory and heritage of the Jacana community.

A colour photograph depicting students and teachers at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1998. The image is bordered by a black frame and features a white strip along the bottom edge with names of individuals neatly printed. The Jacana Primary School logo is located in the bottom right-hand corner. The entire photograph has been laminated for preservation purposes.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, scott blaney, jomana matar, trent gore, sam koistinen, john nisi, toby west, jessica salib, enver scholz, emre akbiyik, helen younan, eman hamad, andrew patalas, lena wharepapa, stephanie melia, corey le, clara david, benjamin grubb, dianne dabrowski, andrew fuimaono, maeve-aine oakley, olivia kaleta, maureen-heidi towers, kaylie hooke, luke o'toole, luke munyard, ben hughes, mrs. heather faulkes, ms. carol taylor, 1998, grade 2/3

This 1979 photograph of Jacana Primary School’s bat tennis premiers offers a nostalgic glimpse into a vibrant chapter of local school life. More than just a snapshot of sporting success, it reflects the values that underpinned the school’s ethos—participation, perseverance, and community pride. Founded in 1959, Jacana Primary served generations of families until its closure in the early 2000s, becoming a hub for both learning and local connection. The image stands as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded students through both academic and extracurricular pursuits. It also serves as a cultural time capsule, capturing the spirit of a suburban Melbourne school community during a formative era in public education.

This 1979 photograph of Jacana Primary School’s bat tennis premiers holds enduring cultural and historical value as a representation of the school’s commitment to holistic education and community engagement. The image is significant not only for documenting a moment of sporting achievement but also for illustrating the broader educational philosophy of the time—one that emphasised teamwork, resilience, and local pride. As a visual record from a school that served the Jacana community from 1959 until the early 2000s, it offers insight into the social fabric of suburban Melbourne during a period of growth and change. The photograph contributes to the collective memory of the area, symbolising the role of public schools as foundational institutions in shaping both individual lives and community identity.

A colour photograph of Jacana Primary School’s 1979 bat tennis team. The students are dressed in various sports clothes and are arranged in rows. The teacher stands in the top right corner of the group.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 1979, bat tennis

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book. Shows age with damaged corners of front cover.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1978

A stapled, card-covered, sixty-four-page book with loose card cover.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1977

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book with loose card cover.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1976

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book with loose card cover. Oil stain bottom right of page 11 and bottom left of p.12.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1975

A stapled, card-covered, forty-eight-page book with loose card cover. Oil stain bottom right of page 11 and bottom left of p.12.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students of Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1974

This 1997 photo of Jacana Primary School’s Grade 4/5 class captures a moment in the life of a community-focused school that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s, reflecting its strong educational and social values.

This 1997 class photograph of Jacana Primary School’s Grade 4/5 students represents a significant moment in the history of a community-centered institution that served Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 until the early 2000s. This image reflects the school’s enduring role in shaping local identity, fostering educational opportunity, and promoting social cohesion. As a visual record, it offers valuable insight into the educational practices, student life, and community values of the late 20th century in suburban Melbourne.

A colour photograph taken in 1997 featuring students and teachers at Jacana Primary School. The photo is bordered by a black frame, with names neatly printed along the bottom on a white background. The entire photograph has been laminated for preservation.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 1997, grade 4/5, timothy blaney, mitchell ryan, faye dabrowski, steven churchill, elke-beth koistinen, neddy changtave, robbie brewer, mary ann pagalanan, sonia zorn, jessica kidd, hollie west, rosalba nisi, ahmad hamad, neimat hamad, jody brown, krystle phillips, michael melia, dany david, phillip tafili, ammoun houssein, nahrin younan, herodia poki poki, peter cindric, william jones, mohammed mehyar, kevin le, mrs. d aylward, mrs. k smith, mr graham archer, cassie peterson

A stapled, card-covered, fifty-two page book with loose card cover.

non-fiction

School yearbook, presenting details of the events and students at Salesian College, Rupertswood, Sunbury.

salesian college, rupertswood, sunbury, yearbook, "certantes in vita", 1973

This group photograph of the 1979 Jacana Primary School Softball Premiers highlights the school’s proud sporting tradition and its role in fostering teamwork, resilience, and school spirit. Established in 1959 and operating until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was a cornerstone of the local community, offering not only academic education but also rich extracurricular opportunities. The image captures a moment of achievement and pride, reflecting the camaraderie and collective effort that defined the school’s culture. As a visual record, it provides insight into the everyday life of the school and illustrates the broader social and educational values that shaped the Jacana community during this period.

This 1979 photograph of the Jacana Primary School Softball Premiers is significant as a testament to the school’s vibrant sporting culture and its broader role in fostering community spirit and student development. As a key part of Jacana Primary School’s legacy—an institution that served the local community from 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s—the image captures a moment of athletic achievement and collective pride. It reflects the school’s commitment to extracurricular excellence, teamwork, and inclusion, offering a valuable visual record of the social and educational values that shaped the lives of its students and the identity of the Jacana community.

A glossy colour photo of Jacana primary schools' softball premiers' female students of 1979. Teacher is in the middle.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 1979

This group photograph of the Grade 2/3 class at Jacana Primary School serves as a poignant reminder of the school’s enduring legacy within the local community. Established in 1959 and operating until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was more than just a place of learning—it was a cornerstone of community life, shaping generations through education, inclusion, and shared experience. The image captures not only the young faces of its students but also the spirit of camaraderie, diversity, and belonging that defined the school’s culture. As a visual record, it offers insight into the everyday life of the school and reflects the broader social and educational landscape of Jacana during its years of operation.

This photograph of the Grade 2/3 class at Jacana Primary School is significant as a visual record of a community-focused institution that operated from 1959 until the early 2000s. It captures the essence of the school’s role in shaping young lives through education, inclusion, and shared experience. The image reflects the values of camaraderie, diversity, and belonging that defined the school’s culture, offering insight into the social and educational environment of Jacana during this period. As one of the few remaining records of the school’s later years, it holds enduring value for understanding the local history and identity of the area.

A vibrant laminated colour photograph featuring a group of children and staff seated in three rows. Their names are displayed on a white panel, printed on glossy paper, accompanied by the school logo.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 1999, jade lloyd, teagan nash, analisa capretta, jovie anne orca, jomana matar, andrea ratnam, jocelyn towers, erika borigano, samantha iskander, kristijan mihaljev, emre akbiyik, trent gore, clara david, elias younan, stephanie melia, andrew knostenbergs, allak hamad, joshua harris, matthew welsh, maeve-aine oakley, andrew fuimaono, krishna hurley - edwards, benjamin grubb, mrs. vivien mcnish, ms. milly dobricic, ms carol taylor

This 1984 photo shows Grades 2 and 3 at Jacana Primary School, once located in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. The school, now closed and demolished, served the local community for decades. This image offers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of local education and childhood in Jacana.

This 1984 photograph of Grades 2 and 3 at Jacana Primary School captures a moment in the educational and social history of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. As the school no longer exists, the image holds historical value, preserving the memory of a once-vital community institution and its students.

Colour photograph on matte paper.

White Label: PH-4471 Blue Label: PH-5189 Brown Label: See attached Sheet 1

jacana primary school, education, class photograph, 1984, d. stanton, s. phillips, h. nagten, a. gough, c. hennessy, r. perceval, t. gray, l. ziervogel, s. gibbon, l. bailey, t. narman, b. wehbe, l. manson, d. scarffe, m. tiernan, m. miller, a. andre-janz, t. blythe, t. ponicwaz, i. szuhai, h. alderman, k. muscat, j. cilia, n. urlich, s. paniewaz, grade 2 & 3

This 1994 photograph of Jacana Primary School’s students and staff holds lasting historical and emotional significance as a visual record of early childhood education within a now-closed institution. It reflects the school’s vibrant community spirit, cultural diversity, and nurturing environment, preserving the legacy of a place that once played a vital role in shaping young lives and fostering local identity. As a snapshot of its era, it also offers insight into the fashion and hairstyles of the time, making it a meaningful artefact for former students, staff, and the broader community.

This photograph of the students and staff of Jacana Primary School in 1994 holds enduring historical and emotional value as a visual record of early childhood education in a now closed institution. It captures a moment in time that reflects the community spirit, diversity and educational environment of Jacana during its operational years. As the school has since closed, the image swerves as a poignant reminder of the role Jacana Primary played in shaping young lives and fostering local identity. It is a valuable artefact for former students, staff and the broader community, preserving the legacy of a place that once stood as a cornerstone of learning and connection. The image is also a record of the fashion and hairstyles of the era.

Colour photograph, mounted on white card with a black border and laminated.

jacana primary school, students, staff, 1994, education

This colour photograph of Jacana Primary School's Prep and Grade 1/2 classes in 1980 encapsulates the essence of an institution that served as a vital community hub from its establishment in 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s. The image stands as a testament to the cherished memories and significant role the school played in the lives of its students and the broader community.

This colour photograph of Jacana Primary School's Prep and Grade 1/2 classes in 1980 is a significant historical document. It captures the essence of an educational institution that was a cornerstone of the Jacana community from its founding in 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s. The image is a testament to the school's enduring impact on its students and the community, preserving cherished memories and highlighting the school's role in shaping local history.

A colour photograph on matte paper with white border

jacana primary school, photograph, school photograph, education, 1980

This colour photograph of Jacana Primary School's softball team in 1989 captures the spirit of a school that was a community cornerstone from 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s. It preserves cherished memories, reflecting the school's vibrant sports culture and the social dynamics of the late-1980s.

This colour photograph of Jacana Primary School's softball team in 1989 holds significant historical and cultural value. Jacana Primary School, which operated from 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s, was a cornerstone of the community. The photograph preserves cherished memories, reflecting the school's vibrant sports culture and the social dynamics of the late-1980s. It serves as a valuable record of the school's legacy and its impact on the community.

A colour photograph of a school Softball team on paper.

PH-4254 (white label) PH-4935 (blue label)

jacana primary school, photograph, school photograph, education, softball, 1989

In 1990, the article "Wait for recreation facilities may be over" by Suzanne Carbone discussed the anticipated opening of new recreation facilities at Banksia Gardens Community Services in Broadmeadows, Victoria. These facilities, including sports fields and playgrounds, were expected to enhance community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles. This development marked a significant milestone for the culturally diverse and vibrant Broadmeadows community.

The anticipated opening of new recreation facilities at Banksia Gardens Community Services in Broadmeadows, Victoria, in 1990 marked a pivotal moment for the community. These facilities, including sports fields and playgrounds, were set to significantly enhance community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles. This development underscored the ongoing efforts to support and uplift one of Australia's most disadvantaged and culturally diverse areas, reflecting the community's resilience and commitment to growth.

Digital copy of page 8 of the Broadmeadows Observer, Wednesday 28 March 1990

newspaper article, broadmeadows observer, broadmeadows banksia gardens, recreation, october 1990, suzanne carbone

This group photograph of Jacana Primary School students serves as a poignant reminder of the school’s enduring legacy. Established in 1959 and operating until the early 2000s, the school was a vital part of the local community, nurturing generations through education and shared experience. The image captures not only the faces of its students but also the spirit of camaraderie, diversity, and belonging that defined the school. It stands as a visual record of a time and place that shaped young lives and reflected the broader social fabric of Jacana during its years of operation.

This photograph holds significant historical and emotional value as a visual record of Jacana Primary School, which served the community from 1959 until its closure in the early 2000s. It captures the essence of a school that fostered learning, friendship, and community spirit, preserving the legacy of a place that shaped generations of young lives.

A vibrant laminated colour photograph featuring a group of children and staff seated in three rows. Their names are displayed on a blue panel, printed on glossy paper, accompanied by the school logo.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 2000, grade 5/6, timothy jolley, casey muscat, dianne dabrowski, kristina mihaljev, matthew eva, shayla nash, jessica salib, enver scholz, benjamin hughes, raymond bell, daniel knosten bergs, jywei luong, tulin cayvarli, asia houssein, nathan atkinson, luke o'toole, carla goddard, sinead tracy, sa tuimavave, matthew tracey, daniel iosefa, quinn oakley, jayne fuimadno, samantha melia, luba bojczuk, merna gamble, nancy frye, kaye smith, ms. carol taylor

In 1987, the Banksia Gardens Association in Broadmeadows sought community support to develop adjacent land for recreation. This initiative aimed to enhance local amenities, foster community spirit, and improve residents' quality of life. Their efforts reflect broader trends in community-driven urban development during that period.

In 1987, the Banksia Gardens Association in Broadmeadows sought community support to develop adjacent land for recreational use. This initiative was significant as it aimed to enhance local amenities, foster community spirit, and improve residents' quality of life, reflecting broader trends in community-driven urban development of the era.

Digital copy of page 3 of the Broadmeadows Observer, Wednesday 28 October 1987

newspaper article, broadmeadows observer, october 1987, broadmeadows banksia gardens

This group photograph of students at Jacana Primary School captures a moment in the life of a school that played a central role in its community. Opened in 1959 and closed in the early 2000s, the school was a hub of learning, friendship, and local identity. Though the school no longer exists, the image preserves the spirit of its students and the educational environment that shaped generations of young lives.

This 1999 group photograph of Jacana Primary School students was a poignant reminder of the school's legacy. Opened in 1959 and closed in the early 2000s, the school had been a community cornerstone, fostering education and camaraderie. The photo preserved cherished memories and reflected the social fabric of its time.

A colour photograph (laminated) of a group of children with an Adult Woman in the Centre.

jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, 1999