While most people were still asleep on the last day of Term 2, 53 students and 15 staff gathered at school at 5.30am, ready for another STORMCo (Service To Others Really Matters) adventure. After packing the buses, hitching the trailers, and praying together, two Avondale School teams headed west to Cobar and Narromine for a week of service, connection, and faith in action.
This year marked the second STORMCo trip to Narromine after the program was introduced in 2025 after an overwhelming student response of interest. Once again, more students applied than we could accommodate, highlighting the value of this service-learning opportunity. The Narromine team built strong connections through Kids' Club, enjoyed the hospitality of the local community, visited an orange orchard, shared a bonfire, and were welcomed by the combined churches of Narromine with a community picnic.
Meanwhile, Avondale School's partnership with Cobar continued into its 28th year. More than 125 children attended Kids' Club throughout the week, and we were overwhelmed by the support shown by local families and the wider community. It was a privilege to provide a fun and safe program during the school holidays while sharing God's love through songs, games, crafts, and Bible stories. One of the highlights in Cobar was seeing the lasting impact of nearly three decades of ministry. Parents and grandparents who had attended Kids' Club are now bringing their own children along, a wonderful reminder that faithful service can leave a legacy across generations.
Beyond Kids' Clubs, both teams served their communities through practical projects, worshipped with local churches, and built meaningful relationships with the people they met. STORMCo continues to be a life-changing experience for our students, helping them grow in faith, develop a heart for service, and discover the joy of making a difference in the lives of others. We are incredibly grateful to the communities of Cobar and Narromine for welcoming us so warmly and look forward to returning next year.
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