Checkmate at St Mary's Primary, Bowraville

Nambucca Valley Police and Bowraville Fire & Rescue visit St Mary's Primary, Bowraville, for a friendly chess competition and afternoon tea. (27 May 2021)

Students of St Mary's Primary, Bowraville, were treated to an exciting experience when Nambucca Valley Police and Bowraville Fire & Rescue visited the school recently. This special visit allowed students to ask questions over a shared afternoon tea before inspecting a fire truck and highway patrol car.

The sound of the sirens was a big hit with the students. 'My favourite part about yesterday was the police siren,' said student Ciara.

The day provided an opportunity for students to connect with local emergency services in a fun and engaging way.

'Today is about us coming to the school in a positive way and getting the kids to see us as people that they can call upon,' said Police Inspector Anthony Smith.

The visit also included a friendly chess competition against emergency services with the St Mary's Chess Club representing the school. The tournament consisted of fourteen games between the students and the emergency services. 'The chess was challenging and fun. It was actually my dream to verse the emergency services,' said student Martin.

The St Mary's Chess club started in Term 4, 2020, as an opportunity to build new relationships and strengthen existing relationships with their peers. The club began with four chess players and has grown to twenty-five players, with many of the students now using chess as a self-care strategy when they have had a tough day. In addition, students have reported that they have purchased a chessboard for home and have begun playing with their family.

St Mary's students were the overall victors of the day, winning nine out of the fourteen matches. However, our wider school community were the ultimate winners. This opportunity enabled the students to see that emergency services are filled with wonderful and approachable people who will be there to help them in times of need.

You can view the NBN News story here: https://www.nbnnews.com.au/2021/05/27/bowraville-primary-kids-challenge-police-and-firies-to-chess-competition/