Page 282 - J Delaney - City of Cessnock Education and Schools

305.

PAYNES CROSSING SCHOOL

like the pine wood, were incorre:c tly supplied. Then the contractor Joseph
Head, due to an accident, lost some sight and the new work had to be completed
by someone else.

Yet another flood on 5th June 1913, once again, claimed a portion
of the school fence. W. Burgess of Wollombi was paid £11.7.0. ($22.70) to
replace thirty six (36) panels.

On 4th April 1916, the school lost a popular and respected teacher
when Harold Slack died. His successor refused to occupy the residence until
it was renovated.

Teacher J.S. Ward, on 28th August 1917, made application to purchase
drinking water for the school. The Department authorised the purchase of
400 gallons at 5/- ($0.50) per hundred (100) gallons. This required a team
of eight (8) bullocks to haul from a suitable creek.

M. Anderson of Singleton, on 14th September 1919, completed a contract
to repair extensive white ant damage and to repaint internally and externally.
The Department's estimate was £215.0.0. ($430.00). M. Anderson's quote was
£208.0.0. ($416.00).

Ag~in a flood on 18th April 1927, caused damage to the boys' lavatory
and to fifty (50) panels, sixteen (16) rods, of fencing. The Department's
paint and repair staff, by Order No. 1700, were directed to clear away the
debris and to make urgent repairs. Their work was assessed at £260.8L6.
($520.86). Just three yea~s later on 27th June 1930, another flood caused
havoc. On this occasion it was the girls' lavatory and twenty two chains
of fencing which was 'washed away.

On 8th June 1932, a petition was sent to the Departm~nt of Public
Instruction requesting that the Depar.tment defer its decision to transfer
teacher Edwin Campbell and close the schcol. The petition was signed by the
following local residents, who indicated the possible numbers of school children
thus:-