TOOGOOLAWAH State School (TSS) has received State funding of over $185,000 to enclose their current undercover area, after waiting a year for funding approval. The upgrade will allow the space to be used for events such as school parades and presentations, as well as community organised events and activties who wish to hire the space.
TSS Principal, Garry Hutchinson, said the school is “very excited” with the upgrade, which will allow for an all-weather facility and “will benefit not just the school, but members of the school community”. “Currently students sit in an open venue on a concrete floor which, in bad weather e.g. wind and rain, is very uncomfortable,” he said. “This will provide an allweather facility for PE and class teachers will use the space for dance and other practical subjects. “
The band will also use the facility for instrumental music and band practice.” Funding for the project has been ongoing, with TSS having put through a State funding application in 2023, while working tirelessly to raise money thorugh fundraising events to contribute to the application. Some fundraising efforts organised by the TSS Parents and Citizens include a bull ride in 2023, a bowls night and auction, and a rodeo chip stall.
State Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, said the school’s strong advocacy and persistence has paid off and congratulated the school team for their ongoing efforts. “While the current undercover area provides a sunsafe option for students, it is extremely cold in the winter months, and cannot be used during, or after, heavy rain events which often means parades and events must be cancelled,” she said. “This will make much more efficient use of the current space, and will include enclosed walls, a multi-purpose sports floor, audio-visual screen and all weather walkway.”
