There was a monster cake, in the shape of books, which was doled out to all the 400 students.

Former students Dean Hersey and Sandra Heinrich spoke to a general assembly before a “happy birthday” song was shouted out.

Katherine South Primary began in demountable classrooms at the showgrounds while the school site was constructed, just a stone’s throw from the hot springs.

Ms Heinrich said she attended the school from prep through to Grade 6, from 1974 to 1981.