Cairns Special School construction to support 100 local jobs

Construction is officially underway on the new $25 million Cairns Special School.

Education Minister Kate Jones joined Member for Cairns Rob Pyne today to turn the first sod on the new school at Windarra Street in Woree.

Ms Jones said Hutchinson Builders had been contracted to build the new school at Woree State High School in central Cairns.

“This project will help drive growth in the local building industry and is expected to support about 100 local jobs during construction,” she said.

“Construction will also create opportunities for local contractors and suppliers.

“The Cairns Special School building project is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s accelerated works program to support jobs and grow the Far North economy.”

Mr Pyne said earthworks were beginning on site and construction work would soon follow.

“I am so proud to be delivering on this key Labor Government election commitment for Cairns,” he said.

“With construction getting underway we’re on track for Cairns Special School to open its doors to students for the start of the 2017 school year.

“The school will have state-of-the-art facilities including 20 classroom spaces for both junior and senior students, specialised teaching spaces, a library, and outdoor play areas.

“A multipurpose meeting space has also been included in the design which will be made available for community use.

“Our community will be thrilled with these new facilities and I know they will greatly improve education outcomes for students with disabilities in Cairns.”

Ms Jones said the brand new school would cater for up to 120 special education students from Prep to Year 12.

“The Palaszczuk Government is determined to provide a quality and inclusive education for every student,” she said.

 “Cairns Special School has been designed in consultation with the local community including the Woree State School and Woree State High School communities.

“It’s being built on what was previously the Woree State High School sports oval, which is being relocated to vacant land on the eastern side of the school grounds.”

Media: Minister Jones’ office 0408 998 940

            Mr Rob Pyne MP 4229 0110