$110 million Catherine McAuley Catholic College approved

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment today approved the construction of $110 million Catherine McAuley Catholic College located in Medowie, approximately 36 kilometres from Newcastle.

The Department’s Executive Director Infrastructure – Planning and Assessment David Gainsford said the development will deliver a brand-new education facility for the Port Stephens area.

Computer generated imagery of the Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie

“The school will cater to children of all ages, with an early education learning centre, a primary school, a high school and chapel, all built within the one campus.”

“The school offers plenty of open space for students, as well as new technology and learning spaces, a library learning hub and a multipurpose hall,” he said.

Computer generated imagery of the Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie

Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle chief executive Sean Scanlon said there is an abundance of support for the new school throughout the Port Stephens area.

“Once opened, the college will reduce travel time for students in the Port Stephens area currently attending Catholic secondary schools in Newcastle, which is a great outcome for students and their families.”

Computer generated imagery of the Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie

Acting director of the Catholic Schools, Gerard Mowbray, said Catherine McAuley College is designed to engage students and staff in the ecology surrounding the site.

“The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is investing record funding in school design and infrastructure, with the primary purpose of transcending students’ learning experience,” Mr Mowbray said.

Computer generated imagery of the Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie

“The project provides direct investment in the region of over $110 million, which would support 150 construction jobs and 185 new operational jobs,” Mr Gainsford said.

“The Department worked alongside Port Stephens Local Council, and community members to minimise any impact on the local environment, including Koala habitat located on the site of the school.”

Computer generated imagery of the Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie

“The Department is satisfied that any impacts on Koala habitat can be appropriately mitigated and managed,” Mr Gainsford said.

Construction of the school will occur in stages over eight years to meet forecast future demand in the region and will continue meet the ongoing education needs of students during that timeframe.

/Public Release. View in full here.