Building Works Following the completion of the Paul Tobias Centre (Staff and Student Services Building) in November 2015, the College commenced the refurbishment of the Administration Offices and Reception. This project involved a total revamp of the office and reception layout and was completed at a cost of $1.5M in May 2016. The opportunity was also taken to establish a gallery adjoining reception where student work can be displayed. This gallery was named the Mrs Pat Bourke Gallery, in recognition of the volunteer services she provided to the College over many years. In August there was the official opening and blessing of the new Mary’s Chapel at Westcourt campus. The Chapel was initiated by the College Principal, Mr Paul Tobias and provides a sacred facility for the Westcourt community. The Chapel can sit about 130. A key feature of the Chapel is the large door that opens up to enable the entire year level to be seated indoor and outdoor in full view of the Chapel alter. The Chapel at the Edmund Rice campus also received some much needed maintenance with repairs undertaken to the rendered surfaces and painting. The carpet was also replaced with the same designed carpet that was installed in the Westcourt campus. This uniquely designed carpet features a pattern depicting the four touchstones of a catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition.
Planning is underway for the next major building project involving construction of a number of project based learning classrooms, two new science classrooms, replacement of two music classrooms which are currently housed in portable building and staff office. Construction is expected to commence mid-2017 and be completed early in 2018. It is expected that the project based learning classrooms will predominately accommodate Year 8 students.
Mary’s Chapel Stained Glass
Mary’s Chapel Touchstone Carpet
Other minor works undertaken during the year included: • New audio visual system installed in the Peter Cannon Performing Arts Centre • Upgrade of the VCAL classrooms including new furniture and painting • Installation of evaporative cooling units at Westcourt campus • Purchase of portable stage for the gymnasium
Administration Renovations
Looking ahead the College is in the process of seeking a planning permit for the construction of a car park on its property in Queens Road. This car park will accommodate approximately 45 vehicles and will ease current parking constraints and reliance on staff and students using street parking.
Work commenced on an upgrade to the Heritage Centre on Shannon Avenue. The upgrade involves new frontage to the building, improved disabled access, new kitchen amenities and raised floor level in the entry to provide increased display space. Pat Bourke Gallery Opening
Mary’s Chapel Opening
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The College is in the process of acquiring Joseph Lane with Council having now gazetted its closure. The lane is off Aphrasia Street and given its location in terms of proximity to existing College property and facilities it is of strategic importance that the College acquire this land.
Terry Fowler - Business Manager Mary’s Chapel Opening
Pat Bourke Gallery Opening
New Reception Area
