A new primary school in Ipswich won’t be opening its doors when classes begin on January 22.
The heavy rain over Christmas/New Year has held up final construction works on the Bellbird Park State School.
The site remains heavily waterlogged with construction crews unable to complete work on the outdoor play areas and fire egress ahead of the opening.
Students and staff will instead be forced to attend the first few weeks of Term One at the neighbouring Woogaroo Creek State School at Augustine Heights until the school is ready to open.
Transport between both schools will be provided for families and students.
In a statement, Education Minister Di Farmer said we know that students and staff were very excited to begin the school year at the brand new Bellbird Park State School.
“Unfortunately, the weather events over the Christmas/New Year period have caused construction delays to outdoor areas so the school will not be ready to welcome students on Day 1.
“We look forward to welcoming students and staff to the Bellbird Park site as soon as we can accommodate student learning needs in a safe environment,” she said.
Meanwhile, Bundamba MP Lance McCallum said I’m committed to seeing Bellbird Park open as soon as it is safe to do so.
“I know our community was looking forward to the opening of Bellbird Park State School, so I’m disappointed that severe weather has had such a significant impact.
“When complete Bellbird Bird Park will offer state of the art education facilities in our growing community, and I look forward to joining parents and students to celebrate that milestone soon,” he said
168 students were enrolled to commence at Bellbird Park SS in Term 1.
