DOWNLANDS Sacred Heart College in Toowoomba officially opened its refurbished boarding house facilities today.

Member for Toowoomba North Kerry Shine officially opened the refurbishment on behalf of Education Minister Cameron Dick and said it was a special celebration as this year also marked the college’s 80^th year of operation.

“The refurbished facilities at Copas House, one of five boarding houses at Downlands College, means the 46 boys in Years 10-12 who call Copas home during term now have access to better facilities,” Mr Shine said.

“These include refreshed dormitories, much improved natural lighting, renovated bathrooms and more comfortable study areas.

“The principal Mr Stephen McIllhatton, says the boys are very happy with their new surroundings.

“I believe that anything that makes the boarding experience more comfortable is to be commended.

“It can be a difficult transition from home to boarding school and I congratulate Downlands Sacred Heart College on doing all within its power to smooth that path.”

Mr Shine said the Queensland Government was pleased to be involved in an essential partnership with Catholic Education to provide quality public education.

“In 2011-12, the State Government has allocated $516 million in general recurrent grants to non-state schools and $51.4 million in capital assistance,” he said.

“Over the past five years, the State Government has provided more than $7.7 million to Downlands College in recurrent funding.

“Through the State Capital Assistance Scheme, the State Government contributed almost $340,000 to the $1.08 million project opened today.

“The Australian Government contributed $446,000 and the school community contributed the remainder.”

“I thank all those who had the vision and leadership to realise therefurbishment of Copas House and all who have madeDownlands the school it is today.

“I would especially like to thank those who worked under immense pressure to repair the refurbished facilities at Copas House which was flooded in January – just weeks after the refurbishment was completed and before students were due to start Term One.”