$24m lift for FNQ schools

WORK has started on more than $24 million in upgrades at Smithfield State High and Trinity Beach State schools.

The two schools comprise the Tropical North Learning Academy campuses. The work will be delivered through the State Government’s Renewing Our Schools program.

“I’m excited to see work has begun on Smithfield SHS’s new Centre for Athlete Development and Performing Arts,” Barron River MP Craig Crawford said.

“While Trinity Beach SS will soon see the addition of a junior learning centre and a special education unit.”

The work will support 70 jobs.

“This began with some staff who came to me with an idea,” Mr Crawford said.

“It will enable the school to progress in leaps and bounds.”

Smithfield State High principal Frank Brunetto said the multipurpose hall would include a lab, meeting rooms, a stage and dance studio, multi purpose sports courts, learning spaces, amenities and staffrooms.

“We are leaping forward to present 21st century opportunities for our kids,” Mr Brunetto said. “This is a new era for Smithfield State High School.

“This facility will give the school an opportunity to create partnerships to enhance and develop opportunities for all students within the school.”

The work at Trinity Beach includes a two-storey junior learning centre and a special education unit with multiple classrooms, staffrooms, consultation, sensory and therapy rooms.

The Trinity Beach facilities are expected to be complete by the end of the year and the Smithfield State High Hall is anticipated to open early 2021.