Sonya Tedesco epitomises the ideal of a volunteer and has done so since her first child, Anthony, began at St Joseph’s Primary School, Cobram, in 1996. Sonya was encouraged by her mum, Kristel Lazzarotto, to help out making craft items for the school fête. She readily admits that craft is her passion.
“Mum was heavily involved in the fête at that time, and underneath the old school hall was a basement filled with all sorts of usable items. She asked if I would crochet some knee rugs from the huge amount of wool we found stored there,” Sonya said.
“It was to be the beginning and from then on, I sewed such a collection of different things and then went on to making preserves!”
After her two daughters, Stephanie and Halina, began at the school, Sonya continued to add to the craft stall. She also made a delicious range of preserves and sauces, initially using her home-grown vegetables and strawberries.
Sonya took on the role of co-ordinator between 2002 and 2011, which grew into quite a substantial role and incidentally, one she loved. The following year, she contacted the Cobram Hospital Ladies Auxiliary and began making preserves for their stalls.
She was then asked if she would continue to make preserves for the school fête. She remains in the role today. She said life was pretty full-on.
“Yet, we have had quite a history at the school. Mum and Dad, Kristel and John, my husband, Rocky, my siblings, myself and now my children have all attended St Joseph’s,” she said.
“Halina is a teacher at the school and I have two nephews attending now! So I guess it has played a large part in our lives, and it feels good to be able to give back to a school that has offered our family such a wonderful education, friendship and community.
“I have had lots of help over the years and made some good friends. I am proud of what I have achieved, and I am registered now with the Moira Shire (Council), ensuring a consistent standard.
“All preserves are made from good-quality fresh produce, while the school buys jars and provides printed labels. It’s a year round activity. In winter, it’s marmalade, April and May quince jelly, all through the year — various sauces. I often freeze fruit that I can use throughout the year.”
When the children were little, Sonya and Rocky grew vegetables and strawberries on their five-acre property. The family moved to Cobram East 10 years ago, where they continue to grow vegetables and strawberries.
Preparing for the fête is in reality a 12-month activity, yet Sonya is also a working woman employed for the past 10 years at Australian Native Farm Forestry, wholesale and retail native tree specialists, at Cobram East. When the children were little, she also worked at the Big Strawberry and Cafe 3641.
Other involvements include Cobram Agricultural Show committee and craft steward, and Boosey Fire Brigade, organising the annual Christmas community luncheon. She also organised a fundraising walk with her daughters for the Peter Mac Foundation at the Boosey Community Hall. Last year, the walk raised $2000.
“It’s always a feel-good day!” Sonya said.
This year’s St Joseph’s School Fête will be held on Saturday, March 15, between 9am and 2pm in its 44th year.
Considering all the efforts by so many people, this year’s fête will definitely showcase something for everyone, including a host of stalls and activities. There will be Dunk the Skunk, train rides, a silent auction, spinning wheel and a student concert, with every class taking its turn on the stage.
Andrew Wilson and his collection of baby animals at his Animal Nursery will also be there.
There will be food galore, with the continental stall filled with wonderful home-baked goodies, including trays of authentic Italian lasagne.
The lasagne should be ordered by Friday, February 28 to avoid missing out.
Hot chips, fairy floss, cold drinks and tea, coffee and fresh baked scones will all go towards making an exceptional day out!
Footnote: Sonya and Rocky’s three children are like many other former students of the school who have gone on to tertiary education. Anthony gained bachelor and master degrees in electrical engineering, Stephanie studied for a degree in health and rehabilitation while Halina earned a degree in primary teaching.
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