OLD SCHOOL RUIN

It sits alone in the forest,

an old stone hearth and chimney –  

no sound but the wind in the trees, 

an occasional bird-call 

and perhaps the drone 

of a tractor   

on a nearby farm.

 

And yet a memory

of such joy and liveliness –  

young voices at play 

or raised in song – 

chanting “tables”,  

sometimes squabbling, 

always learning, 

preparing for life 

in a world yet unknown.

 

The old Wirrabara Forest school in the Southern Flinders Ranges of South Australia is commemorated by its restored fireplace and chimney. It was one of many "one teacher schools" that dotted the "bush".