BMG 2020 Grammarian Issue 3

8 1990 Name change to Bacchus Marsh Grammar AND RELOCATION TO ITS CURRENT SITE IN MADDINGLEY, BACCHUS MARSH A strong desire for quality education in Bacchus Marsh fueled the involvement of our family in the development of Bacchus Marsh Grammar. The first 10 years of the school was such a roller-coaster in all facets just to keep the doors of the school open. So much work behind the scenes by a small group of parents kept the wheels turning. I vividly remember being met with open arms by Silvia Lucas and Jan Loftus when I arrived with a ute load of readers that were being discarded from the school I was then teaching at. Physical resources were so scarce, however the strength of the school was the dedication of the staff providing quality education and pastoral support for the students. This is still evident in the success of the school today. I was fortunate to join the Bacchus Marsh Grammar staff in 1993 on the current site in South Maddingley Road. I have also been fortunate to work with the three Principals, Mr Graeme Blyth, Mr Baxter Holly and Mr Andrew Neal. The school under the direction of Mr Andrew Neal has made quantum leaps in its educational status, state of the art facilities and strong enrolment demand. I feel privileged to have grown and developed my career under his direction and with his support. Reflecting on the past 30 years, it is immensely satisfying that the early sacrifices made by such a small few sees a successful, high demand, quality school that we have today. My five children were all students at the school and were lucky to receive a good education from a small band of quality teachers. The real reward for my family is the opportunities that are offered today in such a prestigious school that will see our grandchildren reap the benefits. – Mrs Elizabeth O’Day, Senior Deputy Principal / Woodlea Operations Project - Primary Specialist ELIZABETH O’DAY REFLECTION