A New Chapter for the Community
Pembridge is delighted to mark the official reopening of Empire Vale Public School, a milestone that celebrates resilience, innovation, and the collective spirit of the Northern Rivers community. After the devastation of the 2022 floods, School Infrastructure NSW led a comprehensive rebuild, delivering a modern, flood-resilient campus that will serve generations to come.
School Infrastructure NSW’s Rebuild: Resilience by Design
The new Empire Vale Public School features three state-of-the-art classrooms, a new library, canteen, administration and staff facilities, and vibrant landscaping with new play equipment. Crucially, the original heritage school building, which has stood for nearly 150 years, was preserved and now sits alongside the new, elevated structures.
Flood resilience was at the heart of the project. The new core facilities are raised on a steel gantry structure, three metres above ground, protecting them from future flood events. Durable, flood-resistant materials were used throughout, and ground-level amenities are designed for easy cleaning and restoration in the event of inundation. This approach ensures that the school is equipped to withstand whatever challenges the future may bring.
Official Opening: Parliamentary Secretary Greg Warren in Attendance
The reopening ceremony was a proud moment for the school and its community. The event was officially attended and opened by Greg Warren, Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Early Learning, who unveiled the commemorative plaque and addressed students, staff, and local families. Greg Warren’s presence underscored the NSW Government’s commitment to rebuilding and strengthening educational infrastructure in the Northern Rivers.
“It is fantastic to be here in the Northern Rivers to welcome students, staff and families back to these new, fully rebuilt and flood-resilient schools. These are some magnificent new facilities for staff and students to enjoy and I look forward to seeing the benefits that these wonderful new schools will deliver for the local communities for generations to come.”
Greg Warren, Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Early Learning
A Community Celebration
The ceremony brought together students, teachers, community members, and project partners to celebrate this new beginning. Principal Bonita Avery reflected on the journey and the school’s vital role as the heart of the community, expressing excitement for the future and gratitude for the support shown during the recovery and rebuilding process
Looking Ahead
Pembridge is honoured to have supported the delivery of this critical project alongside School Infrastructure NSW and the local community. The new Empire Vale Public School stands as a testament to innovation, partnership, and the enduring strength of the Northern Rivers.