Member for Bass officiates
Students in Cowes now have bigger, better school facilities to learn in, to play in and perform in , thanks to the state government.
Last week, state member for Bass Jordan Crugnale officially opened the Cowes Primary School’s new $5.5 million magnificent competition-grade gymnasium, which gives students a multi-purpose play space, assembly space, music room; and the local community a state-of-the-art recreational facility to use outside school hours.
It was four years ago, in September 2018 that Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, Education Minister James Merlino, and Ms Crugnale, visited the school to announce the government’s election commitment to build the gym, if successful at the November poll.
Money was allocated in the subsequent budget, and work began with the school to design the facility soon after.
Architectural firm Project 12 was appointed in August 2019 and worked closely with Principal Rod McKenzie and the school community on a state-of-the-art facility in the school grounds.
In December 2020 Becon Constructions began work.
Fast forward to May 2022, the project was complete, and the gymnasium declared open.
Speaking last week, Ms Crugnale extended her thanks to everyone involved in bringing the project to fruition, and said she was thrilled to have been involved in the journey from day one.
“This competition grade shared community gym is awe inspiring and one of the best gymnasiums I have seen. It is an absolute asset for the students, staff, school community and for Phillip Island,” Ms Crugnale said.
“A special thankyou to the school council’s Brendan Cashman and Carly O’Brien, and Principal Rod McKenzie,” she added.
“Project 12 architects have excelled with a design that connects the school sanctuary and pool with the light filled multipurpose facility, and it has been brought to life by Becon Constructions.
“This school deserves the best facilities and a learning environment which matches the dedication, care and energy of the teaching and support staff here.”
The official opening and celebrations last week saw the school choir sing the national anthem, the school band perform, speeches from school captains Lily Carrille and Brydon Marshall, Principal McKenzie and the former school council president Brendan Cashman.
In attendance were representatives from the VSBA, Project 12 Architecture, School Council, former principal Sue Becker, Karen Treppo from PIELC, teaching and support staff and many parents and guardians.
The school gymnasium will be shared out of school hours by the wider community for sports, social events, meetings, cultural and arts events.