URGENT UPDATE: Parents at Brisbane State High School are fiercely opposing plans to construct 4,000 residential units on the former Visy site, demanding instead that the prime inner-city land be transformed into much-needed playing fields. This critical call to action comes as the state government recently announced its tender for residential development on the site, igniting concerns about the future of local education.
Just announced on social media by Chris Dutkowski, president of the school’s Parents and Citizens Association, the plea highlights the potential strain on school enrolments amidst rapid housing development in the area. With projections indicating that Brisbane State High School could exceed 3,800 students by 2029, parents fear that insufficient infrastructure will jeopardize educational quality and access.
Currently, approximately 2,200 students reside within the school’s catchment area, and a remarkable 92 percent of those students attend the school, which is mandated to accept local residents due to its state school status. The institution also provides around 1,000 additional places through selective-entry programs for academic, sporting, and cultural excellence.
Dutkowski emphasized the long-standing advocacy for playing fields, stating, “The Visy site could accommodate these facilities.” He expressed concern that the site’s potential sale for residential development lacks a corresponding plan for enhancing school infrastructure, further complicating the educational landscape in the rapidly growing West End area.
As the rezoning in West End progresses, and with no concrete strategy from Education Queensland to address future capacity, the situation remains precarious for Brisbane State High School. The community is rallying together, urging the state government to reconsider the implications of their development plans on local educational resources.
Parents and students alike are encouraged to voice their opinions as discussions unfold. The urgency of this situation is clear, as decisions made today will shape the educational environment for generations to come.
What’s next? The Brisbane State High School community is calling for immediate action from local authorities. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the government’s response to these urgent requests from concerned parents and educators.
