St James opens new $1.8 million middle school areas

Students and staff at St James Lutheran College in Urraween today celebrated the opening of a new Middle School building, built with the help of $470,000 in Australian Government funding.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt opened the new facilities on behalf of the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education Senator Scott Ryan.

A $470,000 Australian Government grant funded the $1.8 million project, along with an equal contribution from the Queensland Government, and $949,046 from the St James Lutheran College community.

The project involved the construction of the Middle School Stage 2 Building, which includes new classrooms, a multipurpose room and outdoor learning areas.

Mr Pitt said the opening was part of the Valedictory Service for St James Lutheran Colleges’ first graduating cohort of Grade 12 students.

“Today is an important milestone for the school and a real tribute to the teachers, staff, students, parents and supporters who have made this possible,” Mr Pitt said.

“Everyone who has worked so hard to bring these new facilities to life has shown exactly what can be achieved by a school with strong leadership and a clear vision for the future.

“This addition to the senior campus will provide much needed educational infrastructure for the Hervey Bay community.”

Speaking at the service, Mr Pitt announced St James Lutheran School had also been successful in applying for a grant of $250,000 for the 2015 school year to build three general learning areas and purchase furniture and equipment.

“These funds ensure students have the infrastructure necessary to help them get the most out of their time at school,” he said.

“While buildings alone do not make a school, we are committed to helping equip all Australian students with the facilities and skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.”

Since 2009, St James has successfully applied for $1.76 million in Australian Government funding, through the Capital Grants Programme.

Media contact: Larine Statham 0427 653 814