Armed with donation tins, the colourfully clad students were out early at the major entrances to Mudgee township. 

In a long-standing tradition that may be unique to Mudgee,  Mudgee High students spend their final day at school before the HSC study period collecting money for worthy local causes chosen by the students themselves.

This year, Year 12 chose to support the Mudgee District Hospital Operating Theatre and Ambulance NSW. 

The students’ fundraising is not confined to one day of the year.   Year 12 students have been raising money through various events during the year, including food and drink stalls and dress up days. 

In previous years, the students have raised tens of thousands of dollars for causes ranging from the Mudgee PCYC, Headspace, Lifeskils and Mudgee Rescue Squad, just to name a few. 

As an alternative to the mayhem of “muck up day”, Rainbow Day has been put forward as a model for other public schools to follow. 

It’s become an event that sets an example for younger students, who look forward to their own “Rainbow Day”. 

While Year 12 students take the lead in organising the Rainbow Day activities, the whole school is involved through the fete and concert which wrap up the day. 

The roadside collection has become so familiar to local residents that many have their spare change ready to hand out when they spot the multi-coloured collectors by the roadside. 

Rainbow Day ensures that the Year 12 students finish their secondary school years with proud memories and a sense of achievement. 

And instead of leaving behind a trail of destruction, they leave the school with the knowledge that they have made a lasting and positive contribution to their town. 

If you missed the Rainbow Day collectors on Thursday morning, there is still one more opportunity to donate. 

The students will be taking a break from their HSC studies to collect for their chosen causes at A Day On The Green next month. 

Congratulations to the latest Year 12 students for their Rainbow Day efforts. 

The Mudgee Guardian wishes you the success in the coming Higher School Certificate exams and your future endeavours.