When Phoebe Kinsey and Isabelle Duff were sworn in as head prefect and deputy head prefect of boarding at Pymble Ladies’ College, they knew they had a big job on their hands.

For the past three years, Pymble Ladies’ College has been supporting Australian farmers by holding an annual fundraising event to raise money for Aussie Helpers.

The event is managed by the two Boarding Head Prefects, under the mentorship of the Principal, Vicki Waters.

Phoebe and Isabelle, who both come from farming families, are acutely aware of their responsibility that comes with their roles.

“Pymble boarding is made up largely of rural farming families, and we know that many are currently experiencing hardships as a result of drought," Phoebe Kinsey, who is from Trangie, said.

"Pymble creates an inclusive support system for all the girls and their families. If this support system wasn’t available, some farming families may not be able to support their daughters’ education."

“We feel that it is the responsibility of boarding to promote this important cause both within and externally to Pymble,” Isabelle Duff, from Manildra, added.

“We hope to inspire both boarding and day-school students to continue to support farmers who are so central to the culture of Australia.”

In 2016 $13,500 was raised, 2017 saw $18,000 raised while 2018 saw $35,000 raised. 

In addition, Pymble Ladies’ College raised $55,000 through its annual Garden Party. The College also established two additional Boarding Scholarships for students of primary producers in rural Australia to provide more opportunities for country girls to benefit from a future-ready education at a time when their family’s future has never felt more uncertain.

“The core values of the College – care, courage, integrity, respect and responsibility – are not negotiable,” Mrs Waters said.

“This is one of the great qualities of our community. We support one another, we care for each other, and we own the responsibility of helping those who need help, from the very beginning of our Pymble journey and throughout life beyond our gates. It is indeed something to treasure.”