STUDENTS at Yea High School are helping to uncover and preserve the history of their local community through an exciting historical signage project. The project has seen students researching significant local buildings, landmarks and businesses, while speaking with community members to learn more about the stories and people behind them, including building tours and visits to the local nursing home. Students have had the opportunity to hear first-hand stories and memories from people connected to Yea’s past. The school has also welcomed representatives from Rotary, the Yea Historical Society, Murrindindi Shire Council and members of the wider community, who have generously shared their knowledge and experiences with students. Yea High School thanks them for taking the time to attend a community lunch. These experiences have provided students with an opportunity to go beyond traditional research and understand local history through the stories and memories of the people who have lived and worked in the community. The project is also providing students with valuable skills in research, interviewing, communication, collaboration and presenting information to a wider audience. The students are currently progressing with their research and developing historical signage for a number of significant sites, including Lee Gows (Station 7), the Yea Post Office, Carters, Marmaldes, the Yea Butter Factory and Just Great Coffee, the site of the old bakery. The school is now calling on the Yea community to help fill in any gaps in the students’ research. Residents who have old photographs, stories, family connections, memories or information relating to any of the buildings and sites are encouraged to contact Yea High School. Every story and piece of information can help students build a more complete picture of Yea’s history. The project is a wonderful example of the local community working alongside young people to ensure that the history and stories of Yea are not forgotten but continue to be shared with future generations. Yea High School and its students also want to express their thanks to everyone who is supporting both the project and the students.
