Celebrating 100 Years of Renmark High School

Last weekend, Renmark High School proudly celebrated a milestone that few schools reach, 100 years of public education, community connection, and opportunity in the Riverland.

Our centenary marks a journey that began in 1918, when local community leaders and families first advocated for a secondary school in Renmark. They believed that young people in the Riverland deserved the same access to education as those in larger centres, not a privilege for a few, but a foundation for their future. That vision became reality on 3 February 1925 when 53 foundation students began their studies in a rented hall at the Renmark Showgrounds. Just four years later, the first purpose-built Renmark High School campus opened on Ral Ral Avenue, becoming the region’s first secondary school and a proud symbol of community ambition and belief in young people.

In 1980, the school relocated to its current Thurk Street site, continuing to evolve through new learning environments, strengthened partnerships, and a focus on student growth, wellbeing, and achievement.

A highlight of our celebrations has been the Centenary Dinner on Friday night, where more than 300 guests including mostly former students and staff came together to reconnect, share stories, and reflect on the many people who have helped shape our school over the past century.

On Saturday we opened our doors for our Centenary Open Day. We were overwhelmed with the response with over 1,000 visitors touring our school, exploring our historical displays, sharing treasured memories and seeing what school looks like today. For many alumni, it was a meaningful return to the place where lifelong friendships and futures first began.

While our buildings and classrooms have changed, our purpose remains constant. Guided by our motto, Not for ourselves alone, we continue to develop young people who are respectful, valuing others and themselves, connected, forming strong relationships and belonging, and achieving, striving for personal excellence and positive futures

We remain committed to providing meaningful pathways for all learners from university to apprenticeships, further training, employment, and community contribution.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this historic occasion, our staff, students, volunteers, donors, and the many community members who continue to support public education in Renmark. A special thank you to the alumni and families who travelled from across Australia (even all the way from Canada!) to be part of the celebrations.

As we honour our past, we do so with excitement for the generations to come. Over 100 years Renmark High School has built a legacy of learning that reaches into every corner of Australia and beyond.

Together, we look forward to the next century of belonging, growing, achieving,

not for ourselves alone, but for one another.

Mat Evans
Principal