Wardy’s Christmas Tree - 23 Years of Giving

Wardy’s Christmas Tree is a proud Newhaven College tradition of giving that has been running since 1999.

It began when teacher and Deputy Principal John Ward (now retired) called upon Newhaven College families to think of others at Christmas by donating a gift to families in need.

“Twenty-three years ago, I went to a conference in Wonthaggi where a participant spoke on the hardship some people in the Bass Coast Shire region face,” Wardy reflects.

This revelation impacted Wardy and he wanted to make a difference.

“I went back to the College and put up Wardy’s Christmas Tree where we collected donated gifts from the College and local Phillip Island communities to give to local children in need at Christmas time.”

Every year the College is overwhelmed by the generosity of families and community members who place a gift under Wardy’s tree.

This year has been tough for some in our community and Newhaven College hopes to bring joy to those in need this Christmas. The gifts will be distributed through the local St Vincent de Paul.

Parents, students and friends of Newhaven are invited to place new, unwrapped gifts for people of all ages under the tree in main reception (closes December 7). The gifts will be distributed to local families in need to spread some Christmas spirit and show support within our wonderful community.

Wardy’s Newhaven College Christmas tree is proudly supported by San Remo IGA and Cowes Aldi. Newhaven College wish to thank everyone who has donated in the past, as well as those who will donate this year.