Katoomba High School students are celebrating as doors swing open on their new multimillion-dollar multipurpose hall and sports facility.
The project was launched after a 2022 community campaign by Katoomba High School students, who had been unable to use their aging gymnasium and hall, which was too small for netball and basketball games, and could not fit students for a whole-of-school assembly.
Local students asked then Opposition Leader Chris Minns to visit the facilities, who promised to upgrade to upgrade the facilities if he won the election.
The multipurpose facility and hall includes a stage, indoor sports court, storage and back-of-house facilities for performing arts, along with changerooms and bathrooms. The multipurpose facility and hall and will allow students to perform, host school community events, gather as a whole school group, hold student sporting competitions and play regular sporting games in wet weather.
This upgrade was delivered to the school community ahead of the whole-of-school presentation night on December 10, and the Katoomba High School community came together for a sneak peek at the new space. An official ceremony for the facility is scheduled for 2025, along with further works to refinish the facility’s floors.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said: “I am pleased to see the new multipurpose facility and school hall for Katoomba High has been completed.
“Katoomba High students led a community campaign to have their performance and sports facilities improved, and it is fantastic the whole school will now be able to gather for assemblies.
“This new community asset will benefit students now and into the future, providing new opportunities for students to perform, play sport and get together as a school.”
Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle said: “It is fantastic to see Katoomba High School’s new multipurpose facility completed for students and the school community to use.
“After their gym fell into disrepair, students at Katoomba High School led a local campaign for a new facility – and I am delighted to be part of the Minns Labor Government who have delivered for our community!”
Principal of Katoomba High School Tess Devine said: “The school strives to foster well-rounded students, giving them the opportunity to grow and develop in a supportive environment, and this wonderful facility will help achieve this.
“The facility will cater for a diverse range of sporting activities, including basketball, netball, volleyball, badminton, and boccia and will serve as a hub for physical wellness and competition.
“We hope it will inspire students to engage in healthy, active lifestyles and at the same time, enable exploration and showcasing of their creative talents.”
Troy has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.