A retired teaching couple from Irrawang High School are doing wonderful things for a very good cause.

Mr Owen and Mrs Jan Holbert have supported some of the poorest Cambodian communities for some years, and have made a huge difference in the lives of so many families.

They also contribute to a number of Australian charity foundations.

Over the last few years, they have fundraised for donations for everything from bicycles and water filtration systems to school uniforms and schools supplies.

Students at Irrawang Public School, on learning of the Holbert’s efforts, were motivated to contribute to the cause, and with this year’s sweltering summer, there was no better way to help than with a fundraising car wash.

Stage 2 students at Irrawang Public School washed approximately 23 cars.

Four classes participated, with teachers donating $10 for their cars to be washed.

Principal Stacy Mathieson told News Of The Area, “We used sponges, tea towels, clothes and other materials to wash cars so other students get to learn and be happy like us.”

“We decided to raise money for kids in Cambodia that don’t have school supplies like we have here today in Australia.”

Mr Owen and Mrs Jan Holbert are in Cambodia now and will personally make sure all of the donated money goes straight to purchasing school supplies.

The children learnt valuable lessons from the activity, and have enjoyed learning about the Cambodian schools and how the money they raise will help children less fortunate than themselves.

 

By Rachael VAUGHAN