Children in Cambodia are getting an education they would otherwise miss out on thanks to Glenbrook’s Doug Frewer and generous donations from the Blue Mountains community.
Mr Frewer and his late wife Christine founded a bush school in Cambodia in 2010, which costs $12,000 a year to run, sustained by fundraising alone.
Last October he organised a fundraising film night in Springwood to put towards the school’s operating expenses, raising $4600.
On March 18, Mr Frewer is hoping a variety concert in Glenbrook will help to further cover the school’s expenses, as well as starting a dental program.
“It will be a wonderful night of music, song and dance, with featured acts including dance group Hands, Heart and Feet, and Blue Mountains Musical Society, with numbers from Jesus Christ Superstar,” he said.
The school in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is near the Angkor Temples and provides education, nutrition and health care for 110 of the poorest children, aged seven to 16, living in the area.
Mr Frewer has spent months working with teachers, purchasing vital equipment and organising building extensions at the school.
“Our children are keen to attend their classes in Khmer, English, maths and a variety of subjects designed to enhance their future employment prospects.”
The school also has a new agricultural plot, where students can learn plant propagation, and about growing vegetables, herbs and decorative plants from seedlings. Sporting activities are encouraged, and a boys soccer team has recently been formed and competes in local schools competitions.
“A highlight of the school week is the Friday music lesson. The children love to sing, and quickly learn western melodies downloaded from YouTube, as well as their traditional Khmer national songs,” Mr Frewer said.
The concert will be held at St Finbar’s Hall, Glenbrook at 7.30pm. Tickets $20 or $40 per family. Bookings recommended online at: http://tinyurl.com/z9utmml or phone Doug on 0403 303 943.
