General News
7 November, 2025
Veteran educationist still connected with community
After more than half a century shaping young minds across the Wimmera-Mallee, Hopetoun resident Joan Solly has stepped into a new chapter of life - one deeply connected to community, creativity and local history.
Following her retirement at the end of March this year from Rainbow P-12 College, Joan has already immersed herself in a range of activities reflecting her lifelong passions.
She has become an active member of the Rainbow Archives and Historical Group, joined the Horsham Cake Decorators Group, and begun writing a book of stories and history about her Lush family, early settlers who first cleared and settled Blocks 30-33 in the Parish of Werrap nearly a century ago.
“I’ve always loved writing and learning about local history,” she said.
She’s also proud to see the land once owned by her ancestors still connected to families in the district today.
Her enthusiasm for preserving local stories echoes the same curiosity and sense of belonging she instilled in generations of students.
“I always encouraged my students to develop their writing skills and learn more about their town and district,” she said.
“Now I get to do that for myself, for my family and for the community that’s given me so much.”
While her teaching days have concluded, Joan’s energy remains boundless.
She plans to attend more musical and theatre performances, go to the movies, and even catch more AFL games to cheer on her beloved Essendon.
“Hoping they improve very soon,” she added with a laugh.
She also intends to attend more trotting and race meetings, honouring her lifelong love of horses that began in childhood.
“I have never lost my love for horses,” she said.
“I grew up around my dad and his trotting horses, and it’s in my blood.”
Her garden is another project waiting for her attention.
“My garden needs a major overhaul,” she admitted.
After years in the classroom, she’s excited to finally spend long mornings among the plants.
She’s also open to taking up bowls if her health allows, continuing her trademark optimism and community spirit.
Joan credits her family for inspiring her long and rewarding career.
Her sister, Maureen Farrall, also a teacher for over 40 years, has been a “great mentor” and guiding influence.
“An incredible 92 plus years as teachers between us,” she proudly said.
Despite her retirement, Joan remains closely connected to Rainbow P-12 College, a place she still describes as “in good hands.”
She speaks warmly of Principal Colleen Petschel’s leadership, the wonderful classroom teachers and the amazing new buildings that provide a great learning environment.
Joan often visits the school when in Rainbow, where staff and former students greet her fondly.
At her farewell afternoon tea earlier this year, Joan shared a slideshow titled My Life in Education, from Prep in 1960 to retirement in 2025, a fitting tribute to her remarkable 52-year journey through local education.
It was a moment of reflection, not of endings, but of beginnings.
“I’ve enjoyed my teaching career,” she said.
“But the time has come to pursue more personal interests.
“I know that I’ll continue to keep busy and enjoy all aspects of my retirement.”
From her classroom days in Beulah and Hopetoun to her decades at Rainbow, Joan Solly has left an indelible mark on hundreds of students and colleagues.
And now, through her writing, community involvement and enduring love of local history, she continues to teach in her own way, reminding everyone that learning, giving and belonging don’t stop at retirement.