ORMISTON College has received formal State Government approval for its long-term Master Plan, clearing the way for the next stage of development at the well-known Redlands school.
The approval was granted through a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) by the Queensland Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning following what the College described as years of planning, environmental assessment and community consultation.
The milestone allows the College to move forward with planned future projects including a new oval, playing fields and an Early Learning Centre.
Ormiston College Headmaster and CEO Michael Hornby said the approval represented a significant achievement for the school community.
“This has been a long and thorough process, and we are grateful to the many experts, advisors, and members of our community who have contributed to it,” Mr Hornby said.
“Our Master Plan is not just about buildings and ovals, it is about ensuring that every student who walks through our gates has access to the best possible learning environment, now and into the future.”
Mr Hornby thanked the wider school community for its patience during the lengthy approval process.
“We want to thank our school community – our staff, students and families – for their patience and continued trust in this College throughout what has been a lengthy process,” he said.
“We also want to acknowledge the Board and our founding families for their vision in building a school that continues to look to the future, and the team of expert planners, environmental consultants and advisors who have guided us every step of the way.”
Under the College’s Koala Management Plan, selective and staged vegetation clearing is expected to begin soon to facilitate delivery of the new facilities.
The College said the works would be undertaken under strict environmental controls in accordance with Queensland’s Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2017.
According to the College, the clearing process will include pre-clearing ecological inspections and supervision by licensed fauna spotter-catchers.
A staged directional clearing approach will also be used to allow wildlife to naturally move toward retained habitat areas.
The College said any required fauna management would occur under approved environmental protocols.
Ormiston College also confirmed the works would not impact existing student or staff facilities, with no disruption expected to classes or normal school operations.
The development works will be staged over time and remain subject to operational and funding considerations.
