Work begins on Tumbulgum and Condong school rebuilds

WORK is underway to rebuild Tumbulgum and Condong public schools, with students expected to return to permanent classrooms later this year after three years in temporary facilities following the 2022 floods.

Minister for Disaster Recovery and the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the rebuild marked a fresh start for the school communities.

“The new schools will ensure that students have access to a safe, modern, and inspiring place in which to learn,” she said.

“Students, teachers and support staff, parents and caregivers, can look forward to their new schools coming to life and to the many academic, artistic and sporting achievements that will unfold.”

The renewed campuses will include new classrooms, libraries, administration spaces, canteens and landscaped outdoor areas.

At Tumbulgum, the old school bell will be restored, and heritage materials reused in the rebuild.

Principal Genevieve Esgate said the start of construction was a proud moment.

“The resilience shown by our students, staff, and families throughout this process has been remarkable,” Esgate said.

“With each step forward, we move closer to returning to a school that reflects the strength, spirit, and future of Tumbulgum.”

At Condong, community items including the Great War Honour Roll, painted murals and plaques will be preserved as part of the project.

Relieving principal Debbie Francis said it was exciting to see the new buildings take shape.

“After enduring the challenges of the past few years, we are looking forward to a renewed sense of stability and progress,” Francis said.

“We look forward to watching our new school rise from the ground, and even more so to the day we can welcome our students back to a place they can truly call their own.”