100 students will make the journey from Sydney to contest the Parsons Memorial Shield against their country counterparts over three days of fierce competition.  And some of them still need accommodation.

Students from the two schools participate in a wide variety of sporting and cultural events, which are jam-packed into a non-stop program.

These events include:

They also take in the Mock Trial and the School Social. The city slickers barely have time to unpack the bus before the competition begins.

Teacher Chris Hancock says part of the attraction of the visit, and the reason for its longevity, is the friendships that are created and fostered between staff and students alike, with many still remembering fondly their time in either team, even if that time may have been 20 or 30 years ago.

“These friendships are often closest between students from the visiting school and the family that billets them, as there is a unique opportunity for these city-based children to enjoy and experience life in a small country town, or even rural life on its outskirts,” added Mr Hancock.

“Billeting, having Cumberland students stay at the homes of Wauchope students for two nights, is crucial to the success of the entire event, as without this generosity from our school community, it simply cannot run.” he added. 

As is always the case, they are still asking for families of students at Wauchope High to put up their hand to take billets for the nights of Wednesday June 28 and Thursday June 29.

“Your child does not have to be a member of this year’s team to take a billet, but if they are involved, we would really appreciate your support by agreeing to house a student from Cumberland.

“Billet forms are available at the school, so ask your child to bring one home if you can help,” he added.

For further information, please contact Chris Hancock or Melissa Broderick at the school on 6585 1400.