Officially opened last week by patron and former director Pam Neilson, the equipment is located in an area formerly unused by the children.

“There were old toilets which were part of the former railway barracks and when these were removed, it was an ideal location to set up the new equipment,” said preschool president Christy Shelton.

“The committee has wanted to give something back to the families who have helped so much with fundraising, and new playground equipment was ideal.

“Over the years we have saved more than $50,000 from fundraising ventures and from Bluey’s barbecue and barn dance held about five years ago.

“We don’t get grants and past and current committees have worked very hard fundraising with support from their families and the community.”

The front playground equipment has seen an upgrade with new softfall and play areas.

The new equipment was designed with the assistance of an occupational therapist with gross motor skills and children’s development in mind.

“The school is financially in the best position it has been in for a long time,” Mrs Shelton said.

“Fundraising money has also been spent on a speech therapist who goes to the school every week as well as free hearing, dental and vision checks for the children.

“We also pay for passes so rural children do not have to pay to come to the school on the bus.”