State cash for building boost

By Kelly Yates
THE second phase of construction works at the Berwick Select Entry School will begin after receiving a further $4 million in the Government’s 2009/10 state budget.
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley said she was thrilled at the funding news.
The Berwick Select Entry School, which will have its first student intake in 2010, will be located at the Berwick campus of Monash University.
The school will not only cater to highly able students but will also provide a locally based option for select entry public education and complement the existing select entry schools of MacRobertson Girls’ High School and Melbourne High School.
“The partnership between the school and the university will allow Berwick Select Entry School students to work on joint research projects, attend special classes and lectures, and share the facilities of the tertiary institution,” Ms Graley said.
“This school will provide a tremendous opportunity for students to develop their learning potential and undertake an exciting and stimulating range of studies.”
The initial enrolment of the school is expected to be around 200 students who will commence at Year 9 level. By 2013, the school will cater for Years 9 to 12 students as those in the initial enrolment complete high school.
Ms Graley said new works at Berwick TAFE as part of a $38.7 million program were also included in the budget.
“$650.6 million has also been allocated for 20 new X-Trapolis trains,” she said.
“And $10 million will be used to complete the roll out of digital mammography equipment to BreastScreen Victoria services.”
Courtenay Gardens Primary School, Hallam Valley Primary School and Kilberry Valley Primary School will receive $3 million each for new halls, gyms and multipurpose buildings as part of a State and Federal Government partnership.
“This funding boost for schools in our community will ensure that children in Narre Warren South are given the best start in life,” Ms Graley said
“These projects not only improve facilities and services – they also create jobs.”