By Parker McKenzie
Both the Labor and Liberal Parties have committed to upgrading a Ferntree Gully primary school if elected to government at the November 26 state election, albeit with a $400,000 difference.
On Monday 17 October, Bayswater MP Jackson Taylor announced a re-elected Labor government would invest $900,000 into Kent Park Primary School for a new synthetic oval, running track and playground.
Mr Taylor said the primary is an amazing local school that deserves the best facilities.
“I’m proud that a re-elected Andrews Labor Government deliver a new synthetic oval, running track and playground so everyone gets a fair go,” he said.
“I’ve been proud to advocate not just on behalf of Kent Park Primary but each and every one of our local schools by delivering over $70 million in upgrades – to ensure every kid gets the best start in life.”
On Friday September 16, Shadow Minister for Education David Hodgett and Ferntree Gully MP Nick Wakeling announced a Coalition government would invest $500,000 into the Primary School for a new synthetic oval, new asphalting on a play area, upgraded prep play equipment and school maintenance work.
Mr Wakeling, who is the Liberal candidate for Baywater after the Ferntree Gully electorate was abolished ahead of the election, said he knows the school has been “longing to tackle its maintenance list.”
“The parents of Kent Park Primary School are actively maintaining the school and they deserve the support this announcement will provide,” he said.
“Keeping our kids both physically and mentally healthy and getting them playing outside is our priority and only a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will deliver these necessary upgrades.”
Education is firming as a key election issue in the electorate, with both the Liberal and Labor Parties making several funding commitments towards local schools, including both promising $11.07 million to upgrade Bayswater South Primary School.
Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins said teachers do an amazing job educating Victorian students.
“That’s why we deliver so many new and upgraded classrooms and facilities at schools right across the state,” she said.
“We want our teachers and students to have what they need to succeed in the classroom.”
Shadow Minister for Education and Croydon MP David Hodgett said the school’s students and teachers deserve access to the very best facilities.
“Nick Wakeling has been a strong local advocate for his community over many years and will continue to back local families under a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government.” he said.
Kent Park Primary School was contacted for comment. The school is located at 17 Greenaway Drive, Ferntree Gully.
