Nicole Kidman Sends Birthday Message to Sydney School After 150 Years

Sometimes the biggest stars never forget where they started.

Lane Cove Public School in Sydney celebrated 150 years of teaching children this week, and one of their most famous graduates made sure to be part of the moment. Nicole Kidman, currently filming in Santorini, Greece, sent a video message that brought smiles to students, teachers, and alumni gathered in the school hall.

"I remember running around that playground," Kidman told current students in the recording. "I made friends that I'm still friends with now, and I'm so grateful that I went to such a great school."

The Oscar winner had wanted to attend in person after students posted a sweet video invitation online. When work commitments kept her overseas, she recorded the message instead, which arrived just hours before Friday's open day celebration.

Hundreds of former students and teachers returned to the Lower North Shore school for the anniversary event. Among them was Channel Nine presenter Peter Overton, who served as school captain in 1977 and started attending 55 years ago.

Meredith Lucas, who sang in the choir with Kidman during their time together from 1973 to 1979, made the trip back too. "It was a very close knit school and community," Lucas said, praising her former classmate's success in the demanding film industry.

Sunny's Take

There's something deeply touching about successful people who remember their roots. Kidman could have simply sent regrets, but she took time during a demanding filming schedule to record a personal message for the kids walking the same halls she once did. Her childhood friendships that lasted decades speak to the community Lane Cove Public School built around creative arts and music programs.

Principal Terry McKinnon said the school takes pride in all its alumni, not just the famous ones. The celebration honored 150 years of teachers who showed up every day, students who grew into good humans, and a community that stayed connected across generations.

Lane Cove Public School opened its doors in January 1876 and continues nurturing young talent today.