Opening of John Wollaston Anglican Community School's indoor sports centre

9/4/98

John Wollaston Anglican Community School students have a new $1.4 million facility - the Berry Durston Indoor Sports Centre.

Officially opened today by Education Minister Colin Barnett, the sports centre has been a collaborative project between the school community and the State and Federal Governments.

It has been named after Mr Berry Durston who has been primarily involved in the administration and co-ordination of the higher education and non-Government school sectors in Western Australia for many years. He currently heads the Office of Higher Education.

"I give my warm congratulations to everyone involved in this project and I am particularly pleased that it has been named after Berry in recognition of his commitment and dedication to the development of the school over many years," Mr Barnett said.

"The new sports centre will bring all 900 students of John Wollaston together under one roof for events such as assemblies, indoor sporting events, worship services, concerts, exhibitions and the year 12 graduation ceremony. These events, which are both school and community-oriented, are vital in contributing to, and maintaining, the strong spirit at John Wollaston Anglican School."

Mr Barnett said the State Government contributed $1.2 million from its low interest loan scheme to the project. Since this successful scheme was introduced about $230 million in loan funds had been allocated to the non-Government school sector.

Mr Durston has been a member of the John Wollaston school council since 1989 and chairperson for the past five years. Throughout this period, he has offered guidance, enthusiasm and unconditional support for the continued development of the school. His commitment extends to his role as an active member of the Higher Education Council of Western Australia, board member of the Geraldton Grammar School and chairperson of the Association of Independent Schools of WA capital grants authority.

Media contact: Justine Whittome (08) 9222 9699