KCP - Catholic Diocese of Broome

Students from rural and remote communities in the Kimberley region who undertake their studies in Broome will soon have access to a multi-million dollar student hostel under a partnership entered into between the Catholic Education Commission and State Government.

Estimated to cost in the order of $6.6 million, the 64-bed facility will provide accommodation for both government and non-government school students from across the Kimberley region. PM+D Architects has been appointed
to the project that is proposed to commence in 2006.

A project management group comprisingof Planning and Development at the Catholic Education Office, and Jim Hopkins, the Director of the Country High School Hostels Authority (CHSHA), will oversee the construction phase of the facility.

In addition, a reference group has been established to provide input to the project
management group. Representing the major stakeholders in the project, the reference group membership comprises:
Eileen Lawrance (Chair) - Coordinator of Planning and Development, Catholic Education Office, Carol Garlett – District Director, Kimberley District Education Office, Sandra Brogden – Broome Regional Officer, Catholic Education Office,
Gary Downsborough – Principal, Broome Senior High School, Tony Treacy – Principal, St Mary’s College, Broome, Nik Wevers - Community representative,
Bronwen Griffiths (Executive Officer) – Planning Officer, Catholic Education Office.

Having provided two houses for student accommodation for a number of years, the Most Reverend Christopher Saunders, Bishop of Broome, said he was excited at the prospect of such a development.

“This is an excellent example of ho w an effective partnership can bring great
benefits to our communities,” he added. Similarly, Ron Dullard, the Director of
Catholic Education in WA, said the project was indicative of the close cooperation that existed across the (education) sectors.

Under the partnership agreement, the facility will be built by the Catholic
Education Office and owned/operated by the CHSHA on completion.

Getting down to business: Jim Hopkins and Eileen Lawrance check the plans for the new hostel. Photo: P Bayne