Official opening of Koorana Primary School

29/9/94

The $5.6 million Koorana Primary School, which incorporates shared community recreation facilities, constructed under the Better Government Agreement, has been officially opened today.

Education Minister Norman Moore said the development of the school, in the fast-growing Warnbro area, was an excellent example of how co-operation between different sectors of Government could avoid duplication of facilities.

The Rockingham City Council had made a significant contribution to both the school and the local community by providing on a cost-shared basis, an automatically reticulated grassed oval, hardcourts overmarked for basketball, netball and tennis, cricket practice wickets and associated parking areas.

"This co-operative approach will result in the maximum use of these publicly-funded facilities, improved community access and significantly reduced costs for both State and local governments," Mr Moore said.

"The community will be able to use the Koorana facilities after school hours, making the most of an excellent facility."

Mr Moore said the school had also reaped the benefits of a strong community interest in its establishment.

"The Parents' and Citizens' Association was up and running well before the first class started.

"It is critically important that the community comes forward to take some responsibility in the development of a school.  By sharing responsibility for decision-making in a school, parents, staff and other community members can work together towards shared goals."

The school opened its doors in January with more than 520 pupils.  Its enrolment now stood at more than 540.  On the same site is a pre-primary centre and an Educational Support Centre for students with disabilities.

Built to the high standards of the 1990s, facilities included 16 teaching areas, a library, music room, art/craft centre, canteen, covered assembly area and dental therapy unit.

Media contact:   Ross Storey  321 1444 / 222 9595