Churchlands Principal's Car Bay Auction Raises $500 for European Music Tour
In an innovative fundraising effort, Churchlands Senior High School principal Kate Grayson has successfully auctioned off her reserved car parking spot to a student's family for $500. This unique initiative has played a crucial role in helping the school reach its financial target for an upcoming European music tour scheduled for June and July 2026.
Winning Bid Supports Music Program
The winning bid came from Year 12 student Joel Appleby and his family, who now have Joel's first name prominently displayed across the principal's former parking space. "We hit our fundraising goal, so we are incredibly pleased," Ms Grayson stated. "The family who won the auction was very generous, and we are so thankful for their support and generosity."
Joel's mother expressed her family's enthusiasm for the school on social media, noting: "Both my children have both had such wonderful experiences at Churchlands SHS and, the way I see it, we have saved a fortune on private school fees. So why not donate more to the music tour kids - hope they all have a brilliant time (and the teachers too)."
Tour Details and Fund Allocation
The 2026 international music tour will involve 137 Churchlands SHS students traveling through Austria, Hungary, and Germany over 20 days from June 25 to July 14. While final allocation of funds is still being determined, Ms Grayson indicated the money could either:
- Help reduce costs for participating students
- Contribute toward special experiences during the trip
This year's concert tour will feature performances by the school's choir, orchestra, band, jazz band, and guitar ensemble in historic European venues. Students will also participate in workshops with professional musicians and specialist conductors, including:
- Choir workshops in Hungary exploring the Kodály method
- Open-air concerts in the Austrian Lake District
- Instrument-making workshops in Germany
Broader Fundraising Efforts
The car bay auction represents just one component of comprehensive fundraising activities organized by students, staff, and parents. Additional initiatives include:
- Weekend busking around Perth
- A twilight jazz concert
- A quiz night scheduled for May 2
- Ongoing raffle ticket sales
Churchlands SHS has maintained a tradition of international music tours since 1976, with trips occurring every three years for year 10 to 12 music students. "Our international music tours have always been a highlight of the music student experience," Ms Grayson emphasized. "Alumni from different eras often start their conversations with 'what tour were you on?'"
Educational Benefits and Personal Adjustments
According to Ms Grayson, these tours provide students with far more than performance opportunities, helping them develop essential skills in:
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Cultural understanding
On a personal note, the principal has adapted to life without her reserved parking space, now using a staff car park located further from her office. "So far, I'm enjoying the extra exercise," she remarked, demonstrating her commitment to the school's fundraising success.
