Maitland state MP Jenny Aitchison has been lobbying for government assistance to upgrade Gillieston Public School for longer than she cares to remember.

And, finally, she’s got something to smile about.

In Tuesday’s 2022/23 NSW Budget, the severely-neglected premises received a $1.73m redevelopment commitment.

But, the journey to achieve that feat in itself has been a lengthy one.

Ms Aitchison began campaigning for the improvements more than seven years ago.

She wasn’t asking for the world either, just a few basics such as connection to the local sewer, updated rural fencing and increased mobility access and school playground space for the students. 

Even now the school boasts just two permanent buildings. 

“Parents at Gillieston Public have also been asking for better facilities and made over 30 written submissions to a recent Upper House Inquiry,” Ms Aitchison said.

“Four parents provided evidence directly to the committee.

“Their evidence was so compelling committee members visited the school in June to see the premises for themselves. 

“I have been working side-by-side with members of the Gillieston Public School community to pressure the government to invest and bring it up to a 21st century standard.

“It’s a disgrace that it’s taken 12 long years to get them to even admit there is a problem.

“While today’s funding announcement is a start, we would have preferred to see a completion date and an estimate of the scale of the redevelopment.”

Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold also praised those who pressed forward Gillieston Public’s case.

“Congratulations to the P&C and all parents, students and residents involved in lobbying for the improvements, including Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison,” he said.
“The list of deficiencies associated with the school’s infrastructure was quite frankly alarming.

“So, hopefully, this [promise] is just the start of things to come.”