Director of schools in Maitland-Newcastle Diocese, Ray Collins, officially opened the new library and hall in a memorable community ceremony last Friday.

The buildings were blessed by Bishop Michael Malone of the Maitland-Newcastle Dioscese before Mr Collins unveiled the plaque.

Federal member for Lyne Robert Oakeshott was also in attendance, taking part in a commemorative tree planting following the opening ceremony.

St Joseph’s Wingham was a round one recipient of funding under the Federal Government’s Building the Education Revolution (BER), receiving $850,000 under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century initiative and $75,000 for National School Pride (NSF) program.

With additional funding provided by the Catholic Schools Office for an electrical upgrade and Midcoast Water diversion, the total cost of the building program is close to one million dollars.

“We are delighted to be a part of the Federal Government’s Building the Education Revolution,” St Joseph’s principal Justin Hutchens said. “The construction of the hall has caused great excitement in the school community. This is an extraordinary gift.”

The project has attracted a lot of interest because of its unique design and totally local approach. The hall and library were designed by local architects Russell and Carolyn McFarlane and built by local builder Terry Cross of ALTZ Constructions.

Even the bricks were sourced locally from Bakers Brickworks here in Wingham.

A number of former students and teachers came back for the opening to see first hand just how things have changed.

Greater Taree City Council was represented by deputy mayor, Cr David West.

Year six student leader, Abby James, also read a message from deputy prime minister and minister for education, Julia Gillard, who was unable to be present.

Guests were taken on a guided tour of the new facilities by year six student leaders.