THE Wingham and Chatham high school communities have been grieving the loss of a favourite teacher.
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In October last year, Ed Manganaro was killed at his home in Wherrol Flat in a heartbreaking accident, leaving behind his partner Lynette and their two-month-old baby daughter Imogen.
Ed was a maths teacher at Wingham High School, and prior to his engagement as a permanent teacher taught casually at both schools.
"He was only with us for a short period of time, but he made an impact with some of the students," acting principal of Chatham High School, Merv Presland said.
His death had a profound effect on staff, teachers and students, and some were left wondering how best they could help his grieving partner and baby daughter.
Wingham High School agriculture teacher, Charlie Cassels was one of those wishing to help out.
Charlie and Merv are old friends, having taught together for 13 years in Sydney.
An idea hatched between the two to raise funds for Lynette and Imogen.
Merv had a steer on his property that Charlie deemed good enough to take to the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
As Chatham High School do not enter cattle into the show, Merv suggested he donate the steer to Wingham High School and they prepare the beast for the show.
The steer did well, winning a silver medal in the carcase competition. The proceeds of the sale of the steer at auction prior to its carcase being judged would go to Lynette and Imogen.
The steer was bought by Wingham Beef Exports, who had been approached beforehand and agreed to take part in the generous deed.
Once the proceeds of the sale had cleared, Lynette was contacted and asked to come to Wingham High School to receive the donation.
All involved were typically modest about the act. "It goes beyond our school or their school," acting Wingham High School principal Paul Ivers said. "It's just people coming together to help in a terrible situation."
Lynette was moved by the gesture and expressed her appreciation. She said the money would be going towards Imogen's education.
"Ed was big on education," she said. "We need to make sure we do it to his satisfaction. It's got everything to do with her."
