Upgrades to Goroke P-12 College’s bushfire shelter in place building will become a reality under an elected Liberal and Nationals Government.
The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy visited the college today to announce the commitment, which will support the safety of staff and students in the event of bushfire.
The commitment includes installing a new roof at the school’s sports stadium, which is used as its shelter-in-place venue, as well as installing fire-retardant lining, new emergency lighting, fast-release exit doors and roof sprinklers.
Ms Kealy said the funding commitment would give staff and students greater peace of mind and protection in the event of a bushfire where evacuation was not possible.
“It was only last year that the Goroke community was forced to evacuate during out-of-control bushfires in the Little Desert National Park. Had the fire happened during school hours and not the school holidays, the lack of a fit-for-purpose shelter could have put the students and staff at grave risk,” she said.
“I commend the school for their advocacy, and the work done so far to save school funds and secure in-kind support to help make this upgrade a reality.
“The Liberals and Nationals commitment will not only benefit the school, but also the many community groups who use the sports stadium for concerts, displays, sport and other activities.
“I look forward to working alongside the college to help deliver these vital safety improvements.”
Ms Kealy said the commitment was part of the Liberal and Nationals’ team Fair Share Guarantee, locking in 25 per cent of the state’s infrastructure investment for regional Victoria.
“Goroke should not have to compete with Melbourne for every dollar of infrastructure investment,” she said.
“Regional Victoria deserves its fair share, and this commitment is about backing the Goroke community’s safety and ensuring they have the fit-for-purpose facilities they deserve.”