Keith Wolahan (Menzies, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We all have memories, and some memories are core memories because you never forget them. A core memory for me was when my school saw a fire burn down classrooms in year 7 and year 11. Last Saturday, 26 August, when I saw smoke rise from the Heatherwood School in Donvale, my heart broke for the community. It was a devastating fire that destroyed six classrooms. The local emergency service providers responded promptly and with courage, and I thank them. I also thank the parents, teachers and local businesses who have rallied around the school. A person has been arrested, and that is a matter for the justice system. But what happens from here is for the students, the parents and the community to rally around the school and help them rebuild.

This is a school that has seen a builder go into liquidation, and they're already 20 classroom short, with students sitting in the library and in a garage. They're sharing portaloos with the builders. That isn't good enough, so we need to help them right now. The school is understaffed, and the staff are doing the best they can. I spoke with the principal, Paul Hills, earlier today, and he told me that this school is unlike any others. Families travel from Warburton and Hillsborough, in the electorate of the member for Casey, because it is a unique school. One of the values of the school is resilience and persistence. I remember when I was a student that we all rallied around our teacher and our parents and everyone to rebuild. I know you will do that, and we will be here for you.