FOREST has appointed a new parent representative to replace Ruth Wirtz, the inaugural President, to whom many thanks go for taking on the role in 2008/9. Robyne Evans, supported by Sally Sutton, will be undertaking the role from 2010.
Walktober and National Walk to School Day 2009
FOREST supported 'Walktober' and 'National Walk to School Day' on October 21st by encouraging all girls in the Senior and Junior Schools to TravelSmartly, sharing lifts, taking public transport or walking. A prize draw was organised for all participants. Photos were taken and given to the marketing team in the Junior School to put up on the TravelSmart noticeboard.
TravelSmart
1. The Link-a-Lift Scheme was launched officially on October 21st. This is a pilot carpooling software programme where interested families can log onto share lifts with other members of the Ruyton community.
2. Local MP Jennifer Huppert attended the launch, plus representatives from the Department of Transport and the Boroondara Council. A TravelSmart sign was awarded to Ruyton.
3. The launch was supported by members of the Walking School Buses, volunteers and staff.
TravelSmart intends to target specific POR groups in 2010 to use the Link-a-Lift Scheme – for instance The Henty Rowing Club has already been sent details of how their members may benefit from car pooling on those 5.00am starts!
The Walking School Buses
1. It has been another successful term with a number of girls achieving 40, 80 or 120 walks.
2. There are a number of new passengers from the lower year levels of 1s and 2s.
The challenge for 2010 is to confirm succession planning for volunteer parent conductors.
My thanks go to Mrs. Elizabeth Beattie and Mrs. Sue McLeish for all their work with TravelSmart and the Walking School Buses respectively.
Mrs. Ruth Wirtz, President
Sustainability Growing