Morningside State School rises from the ashes

The Morningside State School community has celebrated the official opening of new classrooms, two and a half years after a fire destroyed the school’s heritage listed building.

A $6.5 million three-storey learning centre with six classrooms, a music room, practice room and green space has been warmly welcomed by the school community.

Education Minister Grace Grace and Member for Bulimba Di Farmer congratulated students, staff and parents on their resilience.

“In October 2018, a much-loved heritage listed building was badly damaged by a fire. It was absolutely heartbreaking for the school,” Ms Farmer said.

“Six classrooms, the music room, books and resources were all destroyed.

“While the fire was a tragedy for the whole community, it proved that the Morningside State School spirit was well and truly alive.

“The wonderful staff, parents and P&C members did whatever was needed to get the school back up and running.

“Balmoral State High School put their hand up straight away to accommodate the students and staff while the damage was cleared.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this school community.”

Ms Grace said temporary classrooms were installed while the school community helped with the design of the new centre and a master plan.

“The new learning centre was completed in November 2020 - a littler earlier than initially anticipated,” she said.

“The builder Kane Constructions did a fantastic job and 10 local jobs were supported during construction.

“It is a world-class facility and I’d like to thank everyone at the school, P&C and my Department for their hard work in making this building come to life.”

Morningside SS Principal Sheryl Kennedy said the new building is loved by everyone.

“We have a beautiful new statement building that means children are learning in modern facilities and have extra space for play time,” she said.

“The open green space in the middle of the school is a wonderful gathering space for our children and the community and will be fully utilised in years to come.

“And the inclusion of lift and pathway in the Green Space has ensured there is now disability access across the school.”

“It is making a huge difference.”

ENDS

Media contact: Laura McKee – 0451 997 920