Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, was delighted to inspect progress of the brand-new, flood-resilient Broadwater Public School today along with the Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car, the Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffin and representatives from the Broadwater Public School P & C Association.
With students and staff having endured nearly two years of learning offsite at a temporary school in Evans Head, Mr Williamson said it was fantastic to see their long-awaited permanent home nearing completion, with students set to return on Day 1 of Term 2.
Mr Williamson paid special tribute to the Broadwater Public School P & C Association, who have fought tirelessly to ensure the rebuild was fast-tracked after bureaucratic obstacles were overcome.
“The Broadwater school community has fought tooth and nail to have their school rebuilt – when they never should have had to, and I have backed them all the way,” Mr Williamson said.
“The P & C Association has remained steadfast in their advocacy, ensuring the voices of parents, students, and staff were heard loud and clear. This new school is a tremendous result for their hard work, and I have no doubt it will serve the community for generations to come.”
The $20 million rebuild has seen a peak workforce of 65 workers onsite, delivering a state-of-the-art, flood-resilient design that includes an elevated structure approximately four metres above the ground. The new school will feature three new classrooms, a library, canteen, administration areas, new bathrooms, and an undercover play space.
The new school is being constructed with flood-resilient design, including an elevated structure approximately four metres above the ground. It will feature three new classrooms, a library, canteen, administration areas, new bathrooms, and an undercover play space.
Mr Williamson also highlighted the significance of preserving the school’s history and sense of place, particularly the decision to retain the much-treasured ‘Love Tree’.
“The ‘Love Tree’ is central to the new school’s layout and is visible from the space between the classrooms and the library. Retaining this tree was a key focal point for the school and the entire community,” Mr Williamson said.
“Students specifically requested the tree remain, and I’m so pleased to see it standing proudly as a beautiful, shady space for them to enjoy. It’s a wonderful link between the past and the future of the School.
“This rebuild is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about restoring the heart of this community. Seeing the progress today, I know the kids are going to love being back in their new school, and I can’t wait to see them walk through the gates on the first day of Term 2.
“I want to thank the Broadwater school community for their patience, resilience, and determination. This project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a common goal.”
Works will continue throughout Term 1, including the installation of a new playground and the return of treasured school items, such as the much-loved Broadwater Public School bell.