Tumbulgum Public School, NSW

Ceremony Marks Start of Flood-Resilient Rebuild

Pembridge is proud to share a major milestone for the Tumbulgum community: the sod turn ceremony marking the official start of construction on the new Tumbulgum Public School. Held on 2 May 2025, this event brought together students, staff, families, and government representatives to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter after the devastation of the 2022 floods.

Community and Government Support

The sod turn was officiated by local Member of Parliament Janelle Saffin and Deputy Mayor Cr Meredith Dennis OAM, who joined Principal Genevieve Esgate, school captains, and the Tumbulgum community in celebrating this moment of renewal and optimism. Their attendance underscored the strong support from both local and state government for the recovery and future of education in the Northern Rivers.

Building Back Stronger

Tumbulgum Public School was extensively damaged during the 2022 floods, forcing students and staff into temporary facilities for more than three years. Now, with support from the NSW and Australian Governments through the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, the school is being rebuilt with a focus on flood resilience and modern learning environments.

The new campus will feature:

• Elevated buildings above previous flood heights

• Modern classrooms, a new library, canteen, and administration spaces

• Restored historical elements, including the original school bell and re-used heritage materials

• Enhanced external landscaping

Principal Genevieve Esgate reflected on the journey:

“We are excited to welcome the start of construction on our new school, marking a significant milestone in our journey to rebuild and restore a vital part of our community. The resilience shown by our students, staff, and families throughout this process has been remarkable, and I am so proud of how we have supported each other. With each step forward, we move closer to returning to a school that reflects the strength, spirit, and future of Tumbulgum.”

Looking Ahead

Construction is expected to be completed during 2025, with students and teachers set to return to permanent, state-of-the-art facilities later this year, weather permitting. Pembridge is honoured to support School Infrastructure NSW and the Tumbulgum community in delivering a school that will serve and inspire for generations.