LONGFORD Primary School will receive $20,000 to transform its multi-purpose hall into an effective learning space.
Gippsland MHR Darren Chester announced the school was one of 11 across Gippsland to share almost $200,000 from the federal government.
“It is a great pleasure to be able to help some of our local schools to realise projects they would otherwise struggle to complete,” he said.
“Times are tough for communities across Gippsland and fundraising can be difficult.
“Our schools are the focus of many towns and districts, so by supporting our schools we are supporting our community. As many people know, a hall in a small community can be used for many different purposes.”
Longford Primary School principal Joel Fraser said the school’s multi-purpose building was currently unusable.
“The walls have holes, the heating is unsafe and the ceiling fans shake the rafters whenever they’re on,” he said.
“The gutters overflow into the building and gaps around the doors and windows let in drafts.
“If we address these issues, we can create a space that will benefit our whole school.
“We’ll have a place suitable for music and drama lessons and whole-of-school assemblies.
“Students will also be able to have their PE class indoors when the weather is cold and wet.”
The refurbishment of the hall is expected to be completed by mid-2020.
The government allocated $200,000 to Gippsland through the Local Schools Community Fund for grants between $1000 and $20,000 for small-scale projects. Fifty-four schools in Gippsland applied for funding totalling $900,000.
Other successful applications in Wellington include Wurruk Primary School ($7430 for iPads to access an on-line literacy program), Cobains Primary School ($18,735 for a sensory garden and imaginative play space), Bundalaguah Primary School ($20,000 to re-surface its basketball court), Briagolong Primary School ($16,000 for shade sails over its playground) and Heyfield Primary School ($20,000 to restore its oval).
Schools were able to apply for funding for projects including small scale extensions and refurbishments, computer and ICT equipment, playground and sporting equipment, landscaping, furniture, air-conditioning and measures to support student well-being.
