The call is out for ex-students and interested residents to attend.

The small one-room schoolhouse closed its doors in December 1976 due to falling enrolments.

Since Peter and Julie Mortimer took over the property and turned it into a cellar door and function area for Mortimers Wines, the schoolhouse has been preserved and remains well used.

Mr Mortimer said a committee had been formed to co-ordinate the 150th anniversary celebrations.

“I have also obtained a complete history of the school from 1866 from the State Records Office, from which we are putting together a document to be given to each attendee who has former connections with the school,” he said.

Mr Mortimer said the March School’s oldest living ex-student will officially unveil a plaque at noon on Saturday, March 5, with a reunion to follow.

Those attending are asked to bring along a picnic or purchase food and liquid refreshments from the March Bushfire Brigade and Mortimers Wines.

“We are planning a forum for the function room where stories, memorabilia and clippings will be collected for the proposed museum to be house in the school, for future generations to remember the significance of the school to the local community,” Mr Mortimer said.

A church service at the nearby St Phillip’s Church at March and recovery event is planned for the following day.

Mr Mortimer said the organising committee was hoping to get in contact with as many ex-students, or those connected with the school, as possible, to be part of the celebrations next month.

Interestingly, the schoolhouse was used for a time as a  campaign headquarters by the late Pete Andren in the lead-up to his election to Parliament.

Anyone wishing to attend the reunion should call Peter or Julie Mortimer on 6365 8513 or email sales@mortimerswines.com.au

janice.harris@fairfaxmedia.com.au