New buildings are officially opened

Federal Member for Robertson Mr Jim Lloyd officially opened the new buildings at Brisbane Water Secondary College, Woy Woy on Wednesday, March 7.

Mr Lloyd was accompanied by State Member for Peats Ms Marie Andrews, State Minister for Education and Training Ms Carmel Tebbutt and college principal Mr Pat Lewis.

The new works include new administration buildings, covered learning areas, kitchens and classrooms.

In total, $9.3 million has been spent upgrading both the Umina and Woy Woy Campuses.

The Federal Government contributed $5.7 million towards the project and the State Government contributed $3.6 million.

Mr Lloyd was joined by parents, both past and present, teachers and principals in officially opening the new facilities.

Relieving college principal Mr David Beattie said the formation of the college was officially announced in August 2001 following an extensive consultation process led by Mr Lewis, and an "enthusiastic" college steering committee.

"Commencing in 2002, students were re-directed to either Umina Middle School Campus for Years 7 to 9 or the Senior Campus for Years 10 to 12," Mr Lewis said.

"In 2007, the first group to combine as the College Year 7 now enter Year 12 ready to face the challenges of the Higher School Certificate.

"Today the College stands proud as a quality provider of age appropriate education for students and the community of the Woy Woy Peninsula.

"It has established an excellent record in academic, cultural and sporting achievement, and offers a wide range of unique initiatives and programs that meet the needs of students and staff.

"These include our extensive agriculture program, workshops for gifted and talented students, musicals, a sports academy, the bush tucker and Outback cafes and Creating our Futures program.

"With over 1700 students and 150 staff, the college has met its challenges and can be justifiably proud to have its official opening, recognising the achivements of the whole school community in the provision of public education in a local, comprehensive setting."

The officially opening was begun with the national anthem performed by Year 12 music students Mitchell Clews and Leatesha Wiliame followed by an acknowledgement of country by Rachael McMinn of Year 11.

This was followed by a dance item from the schools Year 12 dance class.

Both Ms Andrews and Ms Tebbutt spoke at the opening, along Mr Lewis and Mr Lloyd who spoke on behalf of the Federal Minister for Education, Science and Training Ms Julie Bishop.

Former Woy Woy Campus student Tessa Nuku closed the ceremony with a performance of On the Cliff's Edge by Sarah Humphries, accompanied by Brendan Boney.

This opening was followed by a brief tour of the Senior Campus grounds.

Mr Beattie thanked the State and Federal Governments for their input and contribution to the building program and refurbishment of both campuses of the college.

Lyle Stone, 7 March 2007 Press release, 6 March 2007 Jim Lloyd, Member for Robertson Program, 7 March 2007 David Beattie, Brisbane Water Secondary College