Friends of Stewart House (FOSH) – A Legacy of Support

On December 31, 1936, the wives of the Department of Education’s Senior Administrators and Inspectors formed a small group to support public school students in need across NSW. When a property in Curl Curl was donated and a school established, this group raised funds and ensured necessities for these children were provided.

This group, initially known as “Wives of Administrators, Wives of Inspectors and Lady Inspectors” (WAWILI), became closely linked with Stewart House, the official charity of the NSW Department of Education. Schools also started raising money to support Stewart House. WAWILI organized various fundraising events like knitting circles for jumpers and blankets, sewing circles for curtains, clothes, and quilts, and cooking events for regular sales.

Originally, WAWILI was chaired by the wife of the Director-General at the time and held their Annual General Meeting in January when all the Inspectors came to Sydney. The Lady Inspectors attended the WAWILI luncheon during this time.

Over the years, the group changed its name to Friends of Stewart House (FOSH) to include a broader group of people, including men. FOSH’s membership grew, with members continuing to knit, sew, read to children, garden, and handle maintenance jobs. With DET funds, teacher salary donations, and school fundraising, Stewart House has continued to offer wonderful services to students across NSW and the ACT.

Times have changed, and so has the role of FOSH. To align with the new focus on students’ emotional and mental health at Stewart House, FOSH remains a strong supporter. However, teacher salary donations and school fundraising events have diminished, and the aging demographic of FOSH members has impacted the organization. FOSH is trying to “re-invent” itself and continues to raise money to support students in need. They also have a great social calendar of events for fundraising!

To view membership options and upcoming events, see here.