During the 2022 floods Broadwater Public School, on the floodplain at the confluence of the Richmond and Tuckean Broadwater rivers, was destroyed.
The Broadwater School community are now looking forward to the reopening of a flood-resilient school facilities at Broadwater Public School, as they expect to return to their permanent home in the coming months.
‘We look forward to moving into a permanent home that is not only flood-resilient, but also thoughtfully designed to support the needs of our students, staff, and families,’ said Broadwater Public School Relieving Principal Bronwyn Cole.
Flood repair works are well underway at the school site after kicking off in July, after the Minns Labor Government used enhanced powers under the NSW Reconstruction Authority Act to accelerate the school’s planning approval.
The new school, due for completion by day one, term two, was created with flood-resilient design, and includes an elevated building, raised approximately four metres above the ground, supported by a steel structure.
‘Once completed, teachers, families and young children will have certainty of a high-quality school back in their local area,’ said Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car.
‘It is fantastic to see construction progressing at pace at Broadwater Public School.’
The first floor includes three new classrooms, a library, canteen and administration areas connected by undercover walkways, and a ground floor area with new bathrooms, an under croft play space and new landscaping.
Works are progressing well, with flood-damaged buildings now demolished, the under croft slab and ceilings installed, and the school’s modular buildings delivered and in place. Work has now commenced on the interior fit-out and landscaping.
‘I am overjoyed to see the incredible progress on our school’s rebuild. This milestone represents a new chapter for our community,’ said Ms Cole.
Other works to be completed during Term 1, include the installation of a new playground and the return of cherished items, such as Broadwater Public School’s beloved school bell. Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car and Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin visited the Broadwater Public School work site on Wednesday and met with members of the school community to view progress on the rebuild.
‘I am so pleased that works are well underway at Broadwater Public School, and students and families can look forward to returning to permanent facilities later this year,’ said Lismore MP and Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin.
‘Since the floods, many local families have had to contend with much ongoing disruption, and I am proud to be part of the Minns Labor Government, as we continue to deliver important infrastructure back to our community.’
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
