Our history

Royal Far West was born 100 years ago and continues to adapt and thrive, always finding fresh ways to help rural and remote children.

"An inspiration"

While he was recovering in Manly from surgery, Rev Drummond (Superintendent of the Methodist Far West Circuit) had what he called an inspiration:  "To bring from the Far West to the seaside, children of the kind who would otherwise never see the sea during their childhood.”

Together with his wife, he brought the first contingent of children from Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar and Wilcannia in 1925.  He realised that the children were more in need of medical, surgical and dental attention, and the original idea was changed to become the Far West Children's Health Scheme. Over the ensuing decades the work expanded rapidly, land was purchased in Wentworth Street on the site of Manly Luna Park, and the service moved from portable to permanent accommodation in Drummond House.

The start of our school

Royal Far West School (RFWS) was formally opened in Manly as a Hospital School on 3 August 1938, with Miss C Phipps as the first teacher in charge.  By 1941 there were 178 students enrolled at the school, most suffering eye problems, osteomyelitis, ear nose and throat problems and paralysis. We acquired the prefix “Royal” in 1970 after a visit by Queen Elizabeth II.

A new home

In 2019 we moved into brand new premises, and there is an ongoing close collaboration with Royal Far West Clinical Services, with a focus on developmental, learning and behavioural difficulties.  We welcome students and their parents (who are accommodated in RFW premises nearby) each Monday for a week-long stay.  Increasingly, we provide ongoing support to students, families and schools remotely.

Sounds, Words, Aboriginal Language and Yarning

RFWS includes SWAY (Sounds, Words, Aboriginal Language and Yarning).

SWAY is an oral language and early literacy program based on Aboriginal Language and stories within the early learning environment. It has been developed by teachers, Aboriginal education officers and speech pathologists.