UPDATE: Parents at Brisbane State High School are urgently calling on the state government to abandon plans for residential towers on the Visy site, a prime piece of inner-city land. Instead, they demand that the site be transformed into playing fields for their children. This plea comes as the state government has opened tenders for development, which could pave the way for approximately 4,000 residential units.
In a social media statement on Thursday, Chris Dutkowski, president of the school’s Parent and Citizens Association, expressed serious concerns about the impact of new housing on school capacity. He emphasized that the current trajectory suggests Brisbane State High could see its student population soar to 3,800 by 2029, creating a significant strain on resources.
Dutkowski pointed to the rapid rezoning and major developments in West End, stating, “With no corresponding plan from Education Queensland, the future capacity of Brisbane State High School is uncertain.” Currently, just over 2,200 students live in the school’s catchment area, and an impressive 92 percent of those students attend the institution, as mandated by its state school status.
The school is known for its selective-entry programs, offering around 1,000 extra places for students excelling in academics, sports, and cultural activities. However, the community has long advocated for additional playing fields to accommodate the needs of its students, a need that the Visy site could effectively fulfill.
Dutkowski’s statement highlights the urgency of the situation: “It now appears the site may instead be sold for a development of approximately 4,000 residential units – with no clear plan for additional school infrastructure.” This development, if approved, could significantly alter the landscape of education in the area.
Parents and community members are rallying support for their cause, emphasizing that the future of Brisbane State High and its ability to serve local students hangs in the balance. The push for playing fields is not just about sports; it represents a broader concern for the well-being and educational opportunities for children in the community.
What happens next could shape the future of education in Brisbane. As the government weighs its options, parents are urged to continue voicing their opinions and advocating for the needs of their children. The community’s response will be critical in determining whether the Visy site will be transformed into a space for education and recreation or become a bustling residential development.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as parents and stakeholders fight for the future of Brisbane State High School.
