WITH this week’s report the former Bega West Public School site has been sold comes a thorny question.
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I won’t take credit for asking it, as it has popped up on the Facebook pages of both the BDN and Elders Bega.
I simply pass it along here for readers to ponder while we look in to it a bit further.
The former school-turned-bypass HQ is reportedly to be converted in to a day care centre by the partnership that has purchased the property.
The question – if the coming of the bypass necessitated the closure of Bega West and the amalgamation of pupils, staff and resources in to Bega Valley PS, how then can it be considered suitable for a day care centre?
Many parents would agree there is a lack of day care options in Bega and the prospective use of the site is a welcome announcement.
However, questions have also been raised over whether the school needed to be closed in the first place.
On its Facebook page, Elders Bega responded to similar comments with the following.
“Great to see so much interest in this news.
“A couple of points to keep in mind.
“The decision to close Bega West was made by the Department of Education, the new owners are non-government business owners that have seen a need and opportunity in Bega.
“Also there will still be a mountain of paperwork and approvals for the new owners to get through, both with council and State Government regulators.
“There is still a lot of work to be done before any kids will be learning, laughing and creating their own memories on the site.”
Of course, perhaps the bypass wasn’t the reason for the school’s closure – but if not, what was?
We have asked that question of the Department of Education and hope to have a response shortly.
In the meantime, what are you favourite schoolyard memories of Bega West?
Comment below or share with us via our Facebook page.
I would love to hear your thoughts.