Front to back, Maralinga Primary School principal Peter Gray and students Niquita, Kemal and Alec, monkey around on the school’s new play equipment with Senator Mitch Fifield.By Shaun Inguanzo
A PLAYTIME revolution swept through Maralinga Primary School with the official opening of its new playgrounds and shade sails last week.
Senator Mitch Fifield, who helped Maralinga to secure the funding, was on hand to inspect the new equipment, which cost $90,000.
Maralinga principal Peter Gray said the new play equipment catered for older and younger students and was so popular that teachers had to restrict the number of pupils on it at one time in the interest of safety.
The colourful, stimulating and challenging courses now set before students replace the drab and outdated play equipment that was used more for seating than it was for playing, Mr Gray said.
And the new play equipment has a serious side to it, too.
Mr Gray said it was intertwined with the school’s emphasis on keeping children fit and healthy.
A revamped canteen menu, after-school sports programs, and the new playground are all part of the school’s plan to keep students active.
Shade sails cover the two playgrounds to keep students out of direct sunlight during lunch and recess.
Senator Fifield said the money was part of $150,000 the Federal Government had provided to Maralinga to help it revitalise its older buildings and facilities as a part of the Investing in Schools program.
“The equipment is challenging, bright and colourful, and gives the school a welcome lift,” he said.
“We gave the money directly to the school because it is in the best position to judge what its needs are.”
Mr Gray said the remaining money would be spent on renewing other parts of the school grounds, including $30,000 for paving.
