The excursion will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the 20 students in year 3-6, with a train trip to Circular Quay and a ferry to the world-famous Taronga Zoo just two of the items on the agenda.

The trip will be the first of its kind, with the project, ‘Country Kids Fly High’, aiming to repeat it every four years to give each child an opportunity to enjoy this experience in their time in the older primary class.

The students will take off from Merimbula Airport on the morning of Friday, December 5 before returning that night on board Regional Express, and school principal Kathryn Davis said they’re already champing at the bit.

“For many students, it will be the first time they have been in a plane, travelled on trains and ferries, and experienced the urban hustle and bustle and mix of people in the built environment – it’s quite a contrast to rural Towamba,” Ms Davis said.

“Rural and remote schools in low socio-economic areas face unique challenges when it comes to engaging students in their education, including different social and emotional issues.

“Evidence shows that the best way to raise student expectations and aspirations is to raise awareness of their options.

“For the lucky kids of Towamba, this experience will open their eyes to a world beyond the dirt roads and idyllic setting of their little school.”

The excursion is Ms Davis’ brainchild, and has been made possible by a $2000 grant from the Mumballa Foundation and donations from other local organisations including Regional Express Airlines, the Eden Lioness Club, Eden CWA, Merimbula and Bega RSL Clubs, the Towamba P&C and school fund.

Three staff and three self-funded volunteer parents will also travel with the group.

Watch this space for the story and photos from the big day.