Wardy’s Christmas tree returns

Wardy’s Newhaven College Christmas Tree is a proud Newhaven College tradition of giving that is now in its 24th year.

This year, the tree is back again to bring joy to those in need at Christmas.

Anyone in our community is invited to place new, unwrapped gifts for children of all ages under the tree in main reception (before December 7).

The gifts will be distributed to local families in need by St Vincent de Paul to spread some Christmas spirit and show support within our wonderful community.

Wardy’s Newhaven College Christmas Tree 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-four 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.”

The number of families donating gifts increases each year and members of the public also come in and place gifts under the tree. Newhaven College has a tree located in main reception and the students love checking the presents to see what has been donated.

“Learning about the giving tree encourages our students to think of others”, John said.

“It is a living example of our College values of Respect, Empathy and Responsibility that they can relate to.”

Newhaven College thank San Remo IGA and Aldi Cowes for their support, along with the support of the Newhaven College and the broader community.

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