The evening was attended by parents and students – Dr Michael Slattery, former Director of the Catholic Schools Office, Loretta Baker, Mayor of Maitland and Jenny Aitchison, Member for Maitland.

The exhibition began with an Acknowledgement of Country by Bryan Rowe, Aboriginal Education Teacher at San Clemente High School, Mayfield and was then officially opened by Dr Slattery.

While looking for a sculpture competition for the students to enter with Steve and Stella, Karen Tucker, a Pastoral Care Worker at Our Lady of Lourdes, visited the Gallery & Café. After a conversation with owner and local artist, Jenni Nichols and hearing about the love story created by the students, Jenni offered to hold the exhibition.

As well as showcasing the story of the two school scarecrows, Steve and Stella, the exhibition also featured other artwork by students and Jenni.

The night was a significant community building event and students had the opportunity to not only display their art skills but appreciate the skills of others.

“It was an amazing night and a wonderful opportunity for our school,” said Karen.

“The success of the gathering was really evident as the place was buzzing with excitement, joy, laughter and great food. The students from Year 6 did a wonderful job interacting with everyone as they moved through the crowd offering platters of food.

“Everyone played a part in the organisation of this exhibit including our Principal, Cheryl Henderson, teachers, support staff, admin staff, parents, students and Jenni Nichols.”

Throughout the night it was also announced that in 2019 the school will be hosting an art competition called, School Ground Art.

“This will be an annual event that all students in Catholic primary and high schools in the Newcastle and Maitland area have the opportunity to enter, so stay tuned on this later,” said Karen.

You can keep up with the adventures of Steve and Stella on their Facebook page.

Photography by Amanda Skehan.

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