Eildon MP Cindy McLeish has called for funding to be provided to progress upgrades at schools in the Upper Yarra.
Speaking in the Victorian Parliament earlier this month, Ms McLeish called on the Victorian Government to provide capital funding in next year’s budget to repair, maintain and modernise the school buildings in the region.
“The need for capital investment in the area is obvious. Each school of course has its own needs. A common theme seems to be leaking roofs, and this extends beyond just fixing the roof as the wiring, the plaster and the carpets below are all affected,” she said.
“If we take this to the next step, mould can develop, which can impact on the health of both the students and staff. These sorts of repairs are not cheap, and some of these schools have very large roof areas.
“Some schools are growing and they have identified areas that could be enclosed to expand their space. The classrooms and teaching environments in all schools could be modernised.”
Ms McLeish said before the past election, she was able to commit $1 million to Woori Yallock Primary School.
“Unfortunately, Launching Place and Millwarra primary schools are both in desperate need of capital investment.
“Access from the schools in times of bushfires or emergencies needs to be addressed at Hoddles Creek and Wesburn. Electronic flashing lights need to be installed outside Woori Yallock and Wesburn primary schools, both of which are on main roads.”
Ms McLeish also renewed calls to upgrade Upper Yarra Secondary College.
“Many schools in the area have had a complete modernisation, such as Healesville, Lilydale and Monbulk. Upper Yarra Secondary College just seems to miss out,” she said.
“It needs to be considered on its own, and I fear that these needs will be lost if it is fully incorporated into an Upper Yarra-Lilydale education plan.”
