A damning independent review has laid bare the shocking state of disrepair at Gilmore College, a public secondary school located within the very electorate of Western Australian Premier Roger Cook.
Review Uncovers a Legacy of Neglect
The report, commissioned by the state government's School Infrastructure Authority, paints a picture of a school suffering from years of neglect. It found that Gilmore College in Orelia is in a "run-down" condition with numerous facilities requiring urgent attention. The review highlighted significant issues with the school's ageing infrastructure, which has failed to keep pace with the needs of its students and staff.
Conducted over several months, the review's findings are a stark indictment of the school's physical state. It pointed to problems that directly impact the learning environment, suggesting that the poor condition of the buildings and grounds is more than just an aesthetic issue.
Specific Failings and Community Impact
The review did not mince words, detailing specific areas of concern. It criticised the overall design and functionality of the school campus, indicating that the layout and state of buildings are hindering effective education. For a school in the Premier's own electoral backyard, the findings are particularly embarrassing for the government.
Parents and the local community have long expressed worries about the school's facilities. This official review now validates those concerns with documented evidence. The situation at Gilmore College raises serious questions about the equity of education funding and infrastructure priorities across Western Australia, especially for schools in established suburbs.
Calls for Action and Government Response
The revelation has triggered immediate calls for action. Stakeholders are demanding that Premier Roger Cook and Education Minister Tony Buti fast-track a major upgrade for the college. There is a growing expectation that the government must now commit significant resources to rectify the problems identified.
The report serves as a crucial piece of evidence for planning the school's future. The School Infrastructure Authority is expected to use these findings to develop a comprehensive plan for Gilmore College. This will likely involve a substantial capital works investment to bring the facilities up to a modern standard.
This incident places the spotlight firmly on the Cook government's management of public school infrastructure. With the review publicly confirming the poor state of Gilmore College, the pressure is on for the Premier to deliver a swift and funded solution for his constituents. The community will be watching closely to see if this report translates into real and urgent improvements for their children's learning environment.
