Popular addition to Awaba Public School


11th July 2019

THE new play area at Awaba Public School has been so popular that principal Alison Tiplady joked that a roster system might be required to ensure all children had access to the equipment.

The new playground, featuring climbing apparatus, a slide, sandpit, special soft-fall material, and fresh turf cost more than $50,000, Ms Tiplady said.

It was made possible by state and federal government grants, donations from local businesses, and fundraising by the school's P&C.

"The children just love it," Ms Tiplady said at the official opening on Friday.

"We're just thrilled to have such a new and vibrant space for our students."

Member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper, said he was delighted to secure $20,000 for the project through the state government's Community Building Partnerships program.

"It's really easy to make a decision to assist with grants like this when there is such a magnificent community spirit behind it," Mr Piper said.

He praised the Community Building Partnerships program as a valuable resource for electorates.

The federal government was also a major contributor to the works.

Member for Hunter, Joel Fitzgibbon, was integral to the school receiving $15,000 for the playground delivered through Round 3 of the Stronger Communities Grants program.

Ms Tiplady paid special tribute to the school's P&C.

"Our wonderful P&C has been fundraising for this project for five years," she said.

"They've done hundreds of hours of fundraising for the refurbishment of the old playground, plus the beautification works around the school."

The school's P&C president Sara Ashmore said parents at the school had been rewarded for thinking outside the square when it came to fundraising for the small school.

"We do have to be very creative because we have such a small pool to call on," she said.

Centenial Coal and Toronto Workers Club - who each contributed $5000 to the project - were also thanked for their donations.

Director of educational leadership for Lake Macquarie West, James Brigden, cut the ribbon to officially open the facility.


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