MELBOURNE MARATHON 2017

An early morning could not defeat the spirit of giving as staff and students from St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School volunteered to operate drink stands at the 2017 Melbourne Marathon. Inspired by Ms Rome’s presentation about the James Macready-Bryan Foundation, and the need to support young people with Acquired Brain Injuries, we made our way into the city before the sun had even dawned.

Wiping sleep from eyes but in good spirits, the quest to fill the cups with water and Gatorade, piling our tables high, soon became playful competition in itself.  As the runners began their own long journeys of the day, we found ourselves inspired by their endurance, determination and resilience. Many of these runners had committed themselves to training for many months for this event – and many faces familiar to our school community passed us, including students and parents.

It was a day that reminded us all of the joys of the simple act of giving.  The runners were so grateful to us for volunteering and helping them along their way. Our staff and students were equally happy to know that our small actions would contribute to helping the JMB Foundation continue to assist families of young people living with Acquired Brain Injuries.

This was the first time St Margaret’s and Berwick Grammar School had volunteered at the Melbourne Marathon – and it won’t be the last. It was a wonderful morning, full of colour, energy, good-will and costumes.  Thanks to all of our students who gave their time – particularly the Year 12 boys and girls at such a busy time of the year.

Paul Atkins and Lauren Cook  (Deputy Heads – Wellbeing)