More than two years after Morningside State School’s heritage building was destroyed by fire, the school’s community proudly welcomes a $6.5-million, three-storey learning centre in its place.
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The entire community helped with the design and masterplan of the new centre, which houses six classrooms, a music room, practice room and green space.
Education Minister Grace Grace led the official opening of the new building, along with Di Farmer, Member for Bulimba, who congratulated students, staff, and parents on their resilience.
In October 2018, fire gutted a six-classroom, heritage-listed building at Morningside State School. Apart from the classrooms, the music room, books, and resources were all destroyed.
“While the fire was a tragedy for the whole community, it proved that the Morningside State School spirit was well and truly alive. The wonderful staff, parents and P&C members did whatever was needed to get the school back up and running.
Ms Grace also thanked Balmoral State High School for immediately offering to accommodate the students and staff whilst the damage was cleared. Whilst Morningside State School was designing the new centre, temporary classrooms for the children were installed.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this school community,” said Ms Grace, who thanked everyone at the school, P&C and the Education Department for their hard work in making this building come to life.
Morningside State School Principal Sheryl Kennedy said the new building is loved by everyone.
“We have a beautiful new statement building that means children are learning in modern facilities and have extra space for play time,” she said.
“The open green space in the middle of the school is a wonderful gathering space for our children and the community and will be fully utilised in years to come. And the inclusion of lift and pathway in the Green Space has ensured there is now disability access across the school,” Ms Kennedy said.
The new learning centre was completed in November 2020 with the help of builder Kane Constructions. The works were completed earlier than expected and generated a total of 10 local jobs throughout construction.
