Speech notes:-
Ø Thank you for inviting me here today to commission the new bus and the opportunity to say a couple of words.
Ø This bus will be replacing the 20 year old one the school was previously using.
Ø It will transport students to their work experience and social sporting activities that are off the school premises.
Ø The Southport Special School P & C should be congratulated on organising the schools submission to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
Ø Not-for-profit organisations have been provided with more $414.7 million since the fund was launched, helping Queensland Community groups implement over 34,9000 necessary and enriching projects.
Ø Since my time as the Member for Southport I have seen $3,851,706 of that go into local community groups and I’m proud to say I have supported each project.
Ø The Southport Special School was established in 1970 and is one of the largest facilities of its kind in Queensland.
Ø Over the past years it has experienced significant growth
Ø To put it in perspective at the time when the school applied for the Gambling Community Benefit Fund late last year, they had a reported 118 students.
Ø At the present time, the school has now over 130 students.
Ø To combat these enrolment figures, the School has been the recipient of both Federal and State Government funding.
Ø The Bligh Government is committed to ensuring high education standards across Queensland.
Ø The construction and renovation of these four new class rooms is an example of that promise.
Ø Students will be using these class rooms for the first time today including the brand new music room.
Ø I would like to acknowledge the dedicated and hard work of Q-Build who delivered this project 4 – 5 weeks ahead of schedule.
Ø Also the school has received further funding from the ‘Building Education Revolution’ and ‘Schools of Tomorrow’ scheme’s.
Ø This will see a new undercover play area built along with improved facilities included high tech white boards for the new classrooms
Ø This school provides an unreplaceable service to the community and the Gold Coast, not only do they care and educate special needs students but they provide them with great opportunities to pursue their own life goals.
Ø Also I would like to make special mention of the volunteers who dedicate their time in raising funds and helping wherever they can for the schools benefit, thank you for your efforts.
