Tasmania’s new Brighton High School has been officially opened, with the school’s gymnasium named to honour the service of the state’s longest-serving Mayor.
The $74 million school opened in Term 1 this year, commencing with students in Years 7 and 11. Premier, Jeremy Rockliff said the school will be able to cater for up to 600 students in Years 7 to 12, when operating at full capacity.
“Brighton High School is state-of-the-art, with a cutting-edge technology space, commercial kitchen and a contemporary performing arts area,” the Premier said.
“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, our Government is continuing our strong record of delivering the education infrastructure our students deserve, including through our $188 million School Building Blitz.”
The school’s gymnasium has been named in memory of the late Tony Foster AM OAM, the former Mayor of Brighton who strongly advocated for a new high school for Brighton.
Mr Foster, 81, passed away in May last year after a short illness. He had served on Brighton Council for 35 years, with 27 years spent as Mayor, before retiring in 2021.
He was pivotal in securing commitments from the Tasmanian Government for the high school and for the new Bridgewater Bridge.
Mr Foster was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his service in 2005, and then was named a Member of the Order (AM) in 2015.
Education Minister, Jo Palmer said it was an honour to officially open the school.
“It’s been wonderful to celebrate with students, staff and the broader community, and see the positive impact the school is having on the region,” Minister Palmer said.
“The facility has been shaped by extensive consultation with students, educators and the community, and I’m excited to see the school community continue to flourish in the years to come.”
Brighton High School is part of the Government’s investment in new education infrastructure in the wider Southern region, which includes redevelopments and upgrades at Cosgrove High School, Hobart City High School and Cambridge Primary School.
