New performing arts centre inspires Ipswich State High students

Education Minister Grace Grace and Ipswich West MP Jim Madden have today officially opened a new $9.9 million performing arts centre at Ipswich State High School.

Ms Grace said the two-storey centre has been warmly welcomed by students and staff as well as the wider Ipswich community.

“It’s great to see a performing arts centre of such a professional standard already in use at Ipswich State High, supporting students with a passion for the arts,” Ms Grace said.

“The centre features a performance stage, two drama learning areas, two dance studios, two music and two multi-media areas, multiple classrooms and an ensemble studio, a ticket office and a café.

“It also includes a state-of-the-art recording/editing studio and a lighting and sound booth that’s giving students the opportunity to learn a range of digital and technological skills.

“Teaching students to use this equipment will open many doors after they graduate and ensure they’re ready for the jobs of the future.

“This facility will also be used by local Ipswich community groups, providing plenty of room for functions and meetings.”

Mr Madden said the performing arts centre was funded through the Palaszczuk Government’s 2020 Ready Program, supporting 26 construction jobs.

“I’m impressed with this world-class facility which has spread excitement throughout the school and wider community,” Mr Madden said.

“Ipswich State High School has also been boosted by a $6.7 million investment in the State Budget to build 12 new classrooms, with schools in my electorate to receive a total of $8.7 million in infrastructure projects.

“This forms part of the record $1.464 billion investment in state school infrastructure across Queensland schools.

“It’s really pleasing to see this kind of an investment in our Ipswich schools which are continuing to grow.”

Ipswich State High School Principal Simon Riley said the performing arts centre is a win for both the school and local community.

“This wonderful new performing arts centre is not just good for the school but meets a need in the community as well – we are already getting requests for hire from a range of local organisations who are queuing up to use it,” Mr Riley said.

“It’s also giving us much wider vocational training potential by helping us to train our students in a number of Certificate level qualifications in areas such as creative industries, music industry and screen and media.”

For more information on Ipswich State High School, visit www.ipswichshs.eq.edu.au

Media contact: Laura McKee - 0451 997 920