Schoolchildren support their inspiring hometown Olympian

LOCAL Porepunkah Winter Olympian, Greta Small, has had the whole town behind her throughout the Games. That was never more evident last week when she competed in the Women's Downhill Alpine Skiing event. Students at Porepunkah Primary School sent their best wishes and cheers across the globe as they gathered together to watch the event. Greta, who resides in Porepunkah, has a strong connection to Porepunkah Primary School where she has shared previous Olympic experiences with the students. "Most of our older students know who Greta is and some follow her career closely," said principal Jill Gillies. "There have even been times during remote learning when Greta did some training at the reserve with some of our students, in preparation for the ski season. "She is a local legend." Student Millie Noble has aspirations to be just like Greta. "I love skiing and maybe one day, I could compete at the Winter Olympics just like Greta," she said. Students created posters, banners, paper chains and messages of support in class for Greta and teachers took students to some of Porepunkah's local landmarks – the town sign and the old bridge – to record some video footage in support of Greta. "Go Greta Go!" could be heard across the town, amusing locals and tourists alike. Year two student Xanthe McCormack said it was so great watching Greta compete. Evie Higman agreed that Greta is a huge role model for everyone. "She makes you believe that you can be an Olympic skier one day too," she said. "I have always wanted to be an amazing skier like Greta." Porepunkah Primary School embraces the values of persistence, kindness and respect and this was very evident in Greta's efforts on the mountain and in the extremely touching words she said to the students. "If a girl from Porepunkah can stand up here against the world's best, keep believing and keep working and you really can do anything," Greta told Channel Seven after the race. These words have and will continue to inspire the Porepunkah students and staff – Julian Toy, in year five, remarked on her resilience. "Greta Small bounced back when she made a mistake – it was inspiring to watch her at the Winter Olympics," he said. When Greta eventually returns to her home town, the school plans to invite her in to speak with the students to share all those proud Olympic moments.

Schoolchildren support their inspiring hometown Olympian

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