Our thoughts are with all the people so tragically affected by the bushfires, from the people who have lost their lives and homes to the brave and tireless fire-fighters and support crews.  The Victorian bushfires have been hugely destructive and has and will continue to impact on the lives of so many Victorians.
As a School and community, it is very important to feel that we can do something in the face of such a disaster. The Lauriston Community is committed to making a difference to the victims of the Victorian bushfires.
Lauriston’s community service response to date has been:
• immediate collection of donations in tins in the refectory, library, staff centre, and reception;
• initiating a collection of urgently needed items for the RSPCA to assist in the treatment of injured animals;
• casual clothes day fundraiser, and
• student led appeals regarding donations.
So far we have raised over $12,000 to contribute to the Red Cross appeal.
As this disaster will require on-going help and support, Lauriston is committed to maintaining its support in the medium and long term. Students and the School community are welcome to discuss new ways to help with the School community service coordinator, Joan Hammonds.
Our Howqua Campus, located in the north east of Victoria, has not been directly affected by bushfires. Our Howqua students have been temporarily relocated to the Armadale whilst there was a risk of heavy smoke in the region and increased activity in the Yea-Murrindindi fires. As conditions are now improving it is planned that the students will return to Howqua on Friday 20 February.
Our staff and School Counsellor are working closely with our staff and students to ensure the well-being of our girls during this traumatic and tragic time. I encourage parents to contact us should they wish to discuss their daughter’s well-being or access support services available at the School.
Thank you for the many messages of support we have received. I am very proud of our  community’s response and generosity to those who have been so badly affected.

Meg Hansen
Principal