Dannevirke: Community helps make gala success

Dion Tatere-Hoby, 7, made the most of Saturday's fine weather to enjoy the waterslide at South School's annual gala. Photo / Christine McKay

Saturday's gala at Dannevirke South School was the result of a fantastic community effort, principal Stephen Snell says. "This is a really fabulous day and we've had excellent support and how great to see kids happy and smiling."

But Mr Snell said the day couldn't have been such a success without a lot of support from people in our community, many who don't have children at the school, all led by the school's SOS (Supporting our Students) group. "They're the best parent support group I've every seen at a school," he told the Dannevirke News. "But everyone to do with our school have been involved, from the board members to staff and it's been a huge effort, but what a fantastic result."

Taylan and Daeziah Wharewhiti were tucking into the tasty food on sale at the South School gala on Saturday. Photo / Christine McKay

After three days of cold, wet weather, Saturday was a perfect day, with hundreds turning out at the school to enjoy the activities, food and entertainment.

And there were plenty of bargains too, with Kellie Mott winning a new Dunlop bike, ridden just twice, just for the price of a $2 spin the wheel ticket. "I raced here from the face painting booth to get a ticket. Wow," she said.