It’s no secret that schools in regional and remote areas can struggle with teacher retention, limited resources and fewer support networks.

Burren Junction, located in North-West New South Wales, has a population just shy of 250 people – with roughly one sixth of those attending Burren Junction Public School.

Despite its small size, the school community is determined to provide exceptional educational opportunities for students.

To make this possible, the school’s P&C Association recently banded together with local businesses, including GrainCorp, to host a fundraising event aimed at securing the resources to employ an additional staff member, allowing the school to maintain its current three teacher structure.

“We believe that every student deserves the best possible education, regardless of their location,” says President of the Burren Junction P&C Association Laura Bullen.

“Our students come first – that’s the school vision statement, and all of us involved in the P&C want to see our children succeed and thrive.”

On Sunday 24 August, more than 200 people gathered at the Burren Junction School of Arts Hall, coming together for the GrainCorp Long Graze – raising close to $150,000 in support of the school.

Kicking off at midday, community members from Burren Junction, Walgett, Wee Waa, Rowena, Narrabri, Moree and beyond rolled through the gates, with a palpable sense of comradery.

Farmers, bankers, truck drivers, teachers, engineers, artisans and more came together to support the school with their attendance, raffle ticket purchases and auction bids.

P&C Logistics Coordinator Alice Harris says an event like this takes many hands.

“This event has been in the works since November 2024 and has only been made possible by the generous support of so many members of the community,” she says.

“We’ve had businesses donate some incredible prizes, from scenic flights to handcrafted accessories, not to mention those who’ve donated directly to the event in the form of tables, chairs and volunteer assistance.

“To have raised this amount of money to support our school is just fantastic – these funds will go directly toward securing a full-time teacher, which is so important for the kids of our community.”

This type of event is exactly what a GrainCorp Community Fund Sponsorship was created for says GrainCorp Community Engagement Manager Kyle Docherty.

“As the major business in Burren Junction, GrainCorp plays a central role in supporting the community – and we’re so glad to have contributed to the Long Graze event.”

Kyle continues: “Supporting community connectedness is a key pillar of our Sponsorship’s program, and events like this really bring the whole region together.

“Living and working in rural and remote areas, we know there’s not much a community can’t do when they come together, and this event is proof of that.”

Do you know a community that could use some support? Head to our Community Fund page to learn more.