11/8/04
Two Government schools have today shared first place honours in Geraldton's 'School Yard Blitz' competition.
Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter was in Geraldton today to announce that Holland Street School and Beachlands Primary School had each won first place in a local competition to enhance the appearance of their schoolyard entrance.
Dongara District High School was awarded a 'third prize' in the competition.
The School Yard Blitz saw 11 Government schools in the Geraldton region given $5,000 each and four weeks to carry out the work.
"The standard was so high that the judges decided to award two first prizes of $6,250 and a third prize of $2,500," Mr Carpenter said.
"As well as the grant from the Department of Education and Training, each school sought donations from key interest groups and the community.
"As a result of these partnerships with local businesses and the community, work worth about $150,000 was completed at a fraction of the cost.
"It is a fantastic example of co-operation and I congratulate all involved."
The project was developed by the Department of Education and Training's Mid-West District Education Office and the upgrade took place from Monday, May 31 to Wednesday, June 23.
The Minister said the judging panel included Ms Vickie Petersen, Mayor of the City of Geraldton, Mr John Sewell, President of the Shire of Greenough and Geraldton MLA Shane Hill and judging took place from Thursday, June 24 to Friday, June 25.
Mr Hill said the judges were looking for originality, a statement about the school, beauty, practicality and community participation.
"Beachlands Primary School students designed the entry statement, worked on the gardens, helped to paint a mural and sought donations including plants and a scale model of the Geraldton Lighthouse," he said.
"Parents and community members also worked on the project and took part in a school celebration at the project's completion.
"Holland Street School students and community members, including the Mighty Blues Football Club, helped build new gardens including painting plant pots, concrete slabs and a pergola. Existing materials were recycled.
"The staff were impressed by the way the project had brought the school and the community closer together and revitalised their relationship.
"Dongara District High School's entry statement fitted into a school environment concept plan for future development and following their work, which included clearing a site and planting gardens, the students wrote about their experiences and the difference the project had made to them.
"The competition has produced very impressive results and I want to thank those involved, particularly the youth of Geraldton for their enthusiasm and commitment to the event and their schools."
Minister's office: 9213 6800
