- 90 schools across the state to share in $29 million boost funded in the 2023-24 State Budget
- Popular program to benefit 13 more Central Queensland schools
- Today's announcement builds on the 60 schools that received funding from initial $20 million fund
The 90 schools set to benefit from the Palaszczuk Government's $29 million budget boost for playground and tuckshop upgrades have been announced – with 13 Central Queensland schools set to benefit.
In Rockhampton alone Gracemere State School will receive around $500,000 for a new Prep/Kindy playground, while Waraburra State School will get $108,000 for a replacement Year 1/2 playground and Port Curtis Road State School will receive $190,000 to replace an existing junior playground.
Expanding on the initial $20 million Eat right, play right, learn well initiative – that saw 60 schools receive funding – an extra $29 million was announced as part of the 2023-24 State Budget to ensure more schools could benefit from the popular program.
The extra $29 million will see 90 more schools across the state receive funding to upgrade or enhance their playground and tuckshop facilities in an effort to keep students healthier and more active.
Through the program, schools were able to apply for funding of up to $500,000 to upgrade playgrounds, including to replace soft fall surfacing and install shade cover structures, and for tuckshops to purchase items such as catering appliances and equipment, install stainless steel benches and upgrade facilities.
The tuckshop and playground upgrade program prioritises funding schools in disadvantaged areas where these upgrades are needed most.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Education Grace Grace:
"The Palaszczuk Government is delighted to announce the 90 schools that are set to benefit from the $29 million funding boost for the playgrounds and tuckshops upgrade program announced in this year's State Budget.
"This will be money well spent from the Cape to the capital, ensuring our students have access to healthy and nutritious tuckshop meals and modern playground equipment to help our students be active and engaged.
"This hugely popular initiative is all about supporting the health and wellbeing of students.
"And, it has been so popular that the department is reviewing all remaining eligible applications and looking at how we can provide funding.
"So, if your school has made an application but hasn't heard back yet, watch this space
Quotes attributable to Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke:
"It is fantastic to see three schools in my electorate benefit from this popular program.
"We know how important playgrounds and tuckshops are to school life, and this funding is sure to have a positive impact on these school communities.
"In the first round of funding both Allenstown State School and Rockhampton State High School received funding and I'm delighted that three more schools in my electorate have been added to this list."
Quotes attributable to Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga:
"Today's announcement is an important one for schools right across the state.
"In my electorate, Lakes Creek State School is set to receive almost $370,000 to upgrade an existing playground and install two more.
"These upgrades will help ensure students remain active and healthy during their time at school.
"If you add together the 13 Central Queensland schools successful in this round and the 9 schools that benefitted from the initial $20 million, over $6 million is being invested to upgrade playgrounds and tuckshops in this region alone."
Quotes attributable to Allenstown State School Principal Samantha Howard:
"Allenstown State School is delighted with the significant funding received, allowing the school to upgrade its food provision facilities to the highest standards.
"With the establishment of a new eatery, the school aims to create an environment that is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of students, recognising that nutrition plays a crucial role in achieving academic success, along with providing a platform for students to make healthier food choices and fostering a sense of community around wholesome eating habits.
"This space will also allow community members to gather, socialise and enjoy nutritious meals as well."
Allenstown State School received almost $500,000 to build a new tuckshop as one of 60 schools that shared in the fund's initial $20 million pot.
