Saint Ignatius College Geelong canteen manager Sandra Woodall shares ‘many good memories’ ahead of retirement

A Drysdale school canteen manager has reflected on her 27 years providing food and friendship to the students

Sandra Woodall is retiring as the Saint Ignatius College canteen manager after 27 years. Picture: Alison Wynd

From serving students from a caravan to now seeing more than 1000 kids come through the Saint Ignatius College canteen doors, Sandra Woodall has seen a lot in her 27 years on the Drysdale campus.

Mrs Woodall started as a canteen lady at the Drysdale school in 1997, then known as Catholic Regional College, when it had about 150 students.

On December 15, Mrs Woodall will leave the school, now at about 1400 students and enter retirement.

She said she wasn’t exactly sure how she was feeling about the move from being the canteen manager, but knew it was “time”.

“I’ll be 70 next year,” she said.

Sandra Woodall pictured in 1997 in the caravan that was initially used. Picture: Supplied

“It’s a special place in here.

“I’ve just got so many good memories.

“My favourite … is just the kids, the rapport you can build.”

Principal Michael Exton said Mrs Woodall was to be commended on the way she ran the canteen.

“Sandra would be the first to acknowledge the contribution of hundreds of mums and dads and grandparents who have volunteered in the canteen over the years,” he said.

“The canteen’s existence has been due to the untiring efforts of Sandra and her many supporters over many years.

“When we acknowledged Sandra’s 25 years of service milestone, I recall Sandra providing the following wise advice to our students: ‘Always be yourself.’ (and) ‘There is good in every person; sometimes you just have to look a bit deeper.’

“Thank you, Sandra, for your valued and appreciated contribution to our school community … While you may be hanging up your canteen apron, please know that we appreciate your significant part in the school community’s story.”

Mrs Woodall said she looked forward to spending time with her two sons, two grandchildren and her husband.

Originally published as Saint Ignatius College Geelong canteen manager Sandra Woodall shares ‘many good memories’ ahead of retirement