Frenchville State School celebrates 125 years with Family Fun Day

Published on 28 August 2025

Frenchville State School 125th Yasmine Jozeljic_ Elliot Hilse_Lisa Driscoll (1 of 7).jpg

From orchard roots to a thriving regional educational leader, Frenchville State School will celebrate 125 years this Sunday bringing past students, staff and community members together for a Family Fun Day.

Rockhampton Regional Council Divisional Councillor Elliot Hilse congratulated Frenchville State School on its milestone, presenting $2,000 from the Community Assistance Program to support the  celebrations.

“From a small school of 22 in 1900 surrounded by small orchards farmed by German immigrants, to a modern primary school in the heart of our growing city, Frenchville State School has established itself as one of the region’s leading educators,” Cr Hilse said.

“We know that primary school holds many special memories for past students and with Frenchville’s achievements over the years in music, sport and academia, we know there will be some great stories being told from throughout the years at the Family Fun Day on Sunday.

“I am a proud Frenchville State School past student and my children also were fortunate to be educated at this school and I encourage community members to walk through the gates again to enjoy the celebrations,” Cr Hilse said.

“Council works hard through our Community Assistance Program to support Parents and Citizens’ groups and other non-profit organisations to hold local and regional events that bring communities together and welcome visitors to our region.”

Originally named Frenchman’s Creek Provisional School, the school became Frenchville State School in 1925, growing to 68 students in 1931 to a peak of 1,100 in the early 2000s, with 16 permanent Principals serving proudly through the years.

Today, with 833 students and 139 staff, Frenchville State School is a centre for youthful energy and ambition, with several sporting teams, a strong instrumental program and an active student body.

Current Frenchville State School Principal Katrina Jones said the school has always had a reputation for academic excellence, is renowned for its musical curriculum and sporting prowess and has a committed community and well mannered happy students.

“The 125th Celebration Family Fun Day is a free event that is open to all community members and will bring together past and present staff, students and families to celebrate our amazing school’s rich history,” Ms Jones said.

“The Family Fun Day will include a roll call of past students and staff, a colouring in competition, displays of current work and a Pop-Up Paddock, where visitors can relax and catch up with food vans, charcuterie boxes and drinks.

“Not only will be there be musical performances, with several past students and local stars accompanying the Frenchville State School band and ensembles, but there will be old fashioned games, chocolate toss, memorabilia to purchase and school tours commencing from 11am.

“A highlight of the day will be the interviews the Year 6 students have been conducting with past staff and students, and these will be running on the day in our theatre.”

The Frenchville State School 125th Celebrations commence at 9am on Sunday 31 August with registration for the roll call. The formal welcome is at 9.30am, with tours commencing at 11am and activities and celebrations until 2pm.

For more information visit the Frenchville State School Facebook page.

The Community Assistance Program supports non-profit community based organisations with funding for grants and sponsorships towards projects and events that enhance the region’s well-being. For more information and how to apply, contact Council Community Services on 4936 8368 or visit our website.