Cairns MP Michael Healy today welcomed Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Education Minister Grace Grace at the official opening of Trinity Bay State High School’s $6.04 million multi-purpose hall.
The Premier said the new facility, part of the government’s $200 million Advancing Queensland Schools (AQS) program, had been greatly welcomed by the school community.
"This new facility is an impressive addition to the school and has already proven to be an asset to enhanced learning opportunities and results," the Premier said.
"Students and staff will enjoy a number of state-of-the-art facilities in the new multi-purpose hall, including two multi-purpose courts, a gymnasium and equipment store rooms."
The Premier said the complex also included amenities and change rooms/showers, a kiosk/ servery, data room and cleaners’ room.
"The new facility will provide a boost to Trinity Bay State High’s elite Talented Athlete Academy Program as well as opening up new opportunities for wider community engagement with sporting organisations," she said.
Mr Healy said the government’s AQS program was about developing many important and much-needed infrastructure projects across Queensland and would support up to 580 jobs over the life of the program.
"This program is fast-tracking important infrastructure projects and includes more than $116 million to build new school halls or upgrade existing halls at 30 state schools.
"This project is the perfect example of how an investment can positively enhance educational outcomes, while also benefiting the wider community.
"I know these new facilities will get a workout from the students and bring many hours of enjoyment to all who pass through this school," he said.
Minister Grace said the Queensland Government was also contributing to the school through the 2020 Ready Program with the delivery of a new $9.8 million two storey learning centre to further assist the growing school community.
"This new learning centre will have a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) focus to expand students’ access to robotics, design, digital technology and solutions.
"The building will provide 10 general learning areas for mathematics, two design studios and two robotics labs and will be completed for the start of the 2020 school year.
"The contractor for this project Hutchinson Builders has now been appointed and they are eager to commence work on this new facility," Ms Grace said.
Trinity Bay State High School Principal Martin Woodcock said the new sporting facility was an incredible investment for both the school and wider community.
"At Trinity Bay State High School the physical education department has a long and proud history of being a very successful and high functioning department that offers a diverse range of opportunities for students," Mr Woodcock said.
"Whether for basketball, volleyball, badminton, tennis, or through performing arts or community events, this multi-purpose facility will improve outcomes for students of all levels and abilities.
"This complex is a game changer for our school and we are extremely grateful to have access to such a facility."
