The P&C is throwing open the gates to the 36-student school near Hinton and inviting the entire community to its hoedown.

Called Hoedown in the Hills, the community and family-friendly event is a little different from what the P&C has organised in past years to raise funds for the school.

“This event is raising funds to supply the school library with new furniture,” P&C member Tamara Stewart said.

“We’ve had a librarian come in once a week for the past year and completely overhaul the library.

“We’d like to make it a nice new place for the kids to learn, and go on wet weather days; freshen it up a bit.”

While the school community is overwhelmingly supportive, it is many of the parents who are forced to dig deep when it comes to raising money.

Ms Stewart said the P&C looked to organise something different this year – an event that would appeal to people outside the immediate Osterley community.

Hoedown in the Hills will be held at the school, at 753 Hinton Road, from 4pm on Saturday, July 23.

A live band, called Bush Fire, will entertain on the night, there will be a big slide and jumping castle for children, a barbecue, coffee van, face painting and stalls.

As part of the fundraising, raffles and auctions will be held on the night.

“It’s a really affordable and fun night out for the family,” Ms Stewart said.

“It’s going to be a great way to spend the night, and it’s help us raise money for our school.”

Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their finest country-inspired getup – flannelette shirt are a must.

Entry will cost $5 per adult, $2 per child or $10 for a family (up to four children).

For more information phone 4987 2596.