The Queensland Government has moved ahead with plans for a new high school in the growing community of Gracemere, awarding the contract for the project’s design phase ahead of the school’s planned opening to Year 7 and 8 students in 2028.
The Early Contractor Involvement – Design Management and Construction contract has been awarded to F.K Gardner & Sons, marking a milestone in the $100 million election commitment for Stage 1 of the new high school.
Construction of the new school is expected to start by Term 4, 2026 and will include 16 general classrooms, nine specialist learning areas, outdoor multi-purpose courts and an oval, a media release said.
F.K Gardner & Sons will hold industry sessions for local businesses to provide information on opportunities to be involved with the delivery of the project.
It follows a long community campaign to build a school for Gracemere’s growing population – which has reportedly increased by almost 25 percent.
“We’re delivering for Gracemere, exactly as we promised,” Minister for Education Mr John-Paul Langbroek said. “We’ve taken a major step forward in delivering a brand new, fit-for-purpose high school that will provide a world-class education to our young Queenslanders.”
It comes as the Queensland Government seeks to deliver $21.9 billion to build 15 new schools, including six special schools in the state.
“There are currently eight new schools or campuses under construction, with site works either underway or set to commence in the coming months,” Mr Langbroek said.
Member for Rockhampton Mrs Donna Kirkland encouraged Gracemere businesses to attend the industry sessions.
“This project will support the growing needs of the Rockhampton region, particularly in Gracemere,” Mrs Kirkland said.
“It will create opportunities for local businesses, and I encourage business owners to attend an information session to learn about the opportunities that are available.
“My community has called for a Gracemere High School for 20 years … families in my electorate deserve better facilities and a world-class education and I’m proud to be part of the team delivering for them.”
