Meander residents advocate for consultation on Avoca School site

Another vacant primary school building is up for grabs and the Meander Area Residents and Ratepayers Association has emphasised the importance of councils consulting with their communities.

In a situation similar to the one at the former Meander School site, Northern Midlands Council is considering buying the Avoca Primary School building.

Launceston YMCA has expressed interest in using the Avoca site but councillors last week postponed a decision until they have more information.

MARRA spokesperson Bodhi McSweeney said she encourages all involved to honestly consult/involve the community with any decision making. 

‘Country schools are generally the heart of small towns and care needs to be taken to see that the re-purpose is something that will benefit the community and that the community is in agreement with. 

‘Communities put in a lot of work and dedication keeping schools alive and open via volunteering and fundraising and have a right to be consulted in the process. 

‘Meander is suffering emotionally and financially because of the lack of community involvement with the decision to lease the former primary school site for $1 a year to a faith-based rehabilitation program.  

‘We wouldn’t wish this hardship on any other small rural town.’

Northern Midlands mayor Mary Knowles said the Avoca community identified strongly with the school, not least because a local farmer had donated the land.

‘The council needs to look at the ongoing costs of maintaining the building,’ she said.

‘I believe the community will not object fiercely to the YMCA proposal because it’s an educational program.’