WHILE some were celebrating Australia Day, many families spent the long weekend getting ready for a new school year.
With new uniforms, shoes and books to be bought, it’s a busy time of year for parents and retailers.
Mildura Lowes manager Sara Martin said the back-to-school period had been a busy one for the store, which stocks uniforms for six of Sunraysia’s schools.
“It’s been extremely busy in the lead-up, especially the last two days,” she said.
Although there are a lot of last-minute shoppers, Ms Martin said that most parents got uniform shopping out of the way early to avoid the rush.
“People have been coming in early this year, that’s what we’ve noticed,” she said.
Among those flocking to Mildura Central yesterday were 11-year-old Aryah Hughes and her mum Elisha, who were ticking off the last few things on their school list.
“Aryah’s just having her hair cut today, we have her uniform and her new shoes,” Ms Hughes said. “We are ready. It’s the last thing, checking off the list.”
Aryah is keen to get back to school later this week, when she’ll be starting her last year of primary school at Trinity Lutheran College.
“Next year I’m going to another high school, so this is the year to just have fun with my friends and make primary school the best it can be,” she said.
Her advice to those starting school this week: “Primary school is pretty fun, just make the most of it.”
