Camp school site attracts interest

The future use of Point Peron Camp School in Rockingham is being considered behind closed doors, with a spokeswoman from Premier Mark McGowan’s office saying several providers have expressed interest in the site.

The State Government announced education cuts late last year that will see funding cease for the camp school in Rockingham.

Since then, the Mangles Bay Marina proposal has also been axed by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti, leaving the area with an uncertain future.

The Telegraph reported last week former Rockingham MP Phil Edman had called on the Government to establish an inclusive public facility that could be used by education groups, government services, environmental advocates and tourism providers. A spokeswoman from Mr McGowan’s office confirmed there had been interest in the site from several providers.

“The Department of Education has had initial discussions with State Government departments, local government and non-government organisations and this work is ongoing,” she said. “The priority is to ensure public school students can continue to access camp experiences at an affordable cost.”

Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said the City did not have a preferred use for the site but expected the State Government to lead the planning process.

“Going forward, the City believes the entire Point Peron peninsular must be planned as one entity to ensure integrated outcomes,” he said. “The future of the camp school is an important part of this planning approach and the ideas raised by Mr Edman should be duly considered as part of a process to determine future use and management of the area.

“However, as the numerous landholdings that comprise Point Peron are almost entirely owned and/or managed by the State, the City can only play an advocacy role.”