Northern Beaches State High School teachers and students will be locked in for safety

11th July 2022

State Member for Hinchinbrook and KAP Deputy Leader Nick Dametto.

Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader and Hinchinbrook MP, Nick Dametto said the ongoing security issue of unwanted intruders entering Northern Beaches State High School (NBSHS) property would soon be in the past, with funding for a security fence allocated in the 2022-23 State Budget.

The Hinchinbrook MP acknowledged Minister for Education, Hon. Grace Grace and the State Labor Government for allocating $1,200,000 in the 2022-23 Queensland Budget to improve safety at the NBSHS for students, teachers, and visitors.

Back in August 2021, the Hinchinbrook MP called on the State Government to unlock funding for security fences at NBSHS following an increase in trespassers and property damage, due to the school not having a boundary fence.[1]

“Hopefully with the completion of the new security fence cases of graffiti and vandalism to buildings and unwanted visitors threatening children will soon be events of the past, which will be a massive relief for parents,” Mr Dametto said.

“The track record of intruders causing havoc and aggressive dogs wandering the grounds puts our teachers and children at risk which leads to stress and angst for parents.

“I want to thank those who contacted our office to make us aware of the need for an upgrade to fencing at NBSHS. It was clear that the existing infrastructure was not fit for purpose and below the safety standard required to protect our children.

“Also, credit given where credit’s due, Minister Grace Grace and Department of Education should be applauded for recognising this risk and ensuring the project will be delivered in the 2022-23 Queensland Budget.”

According to Queensland Police Crime Statistics, in April and May 2022, there were 620 unlawful entry offences and 499 other property damage offences in the Townsville District.[2]

Mr Dametto said the State Labor Government shouldn’t be hiding from the real crime statistics that Townsville residents care about.

“Unfortunately, our schools are not immune to our current crime crisis and at a time where the current legislation is not a deterrent to criminals, it’s good to see that the Department of Education has recognised the best way to protect students and their assets is by boosting security measures in the area,” Mr Dametto said.

“The NBSHS community has welcomed this project and looks forward to seeing construction commence.”

[1] https://nickdametto.com/dametto-fights-to-protect-northern-beaches-state-high-school-students

[2] https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/townsville/queensland-crime-statistics/