Veterans to give former school a new lease on life

The heritage-listed building has stood vacant for years but a new agreement means use of the much-loved structure will bring benefits to veterans and the community.

The former Takura School will be leased to the Veterans of Australia Association where health and wellbeing programs will run.​

A heritage-listed former school building will get a second chance at life with the Fraser Coast Regional Council making a decision on plans for the future of the old building.

The former Takura School will be leased to the Veterans of Australia Association where health and wellbeing programs will run.

At a Council meeting on Wednesday the veteran’s group was given three years to secure funding to build a storage facility at the site before a 10-year lease starts.

The building will be restored for use by the Veterans of Australia Association.

The Local Heritage Registered building has been vacant for years, with Councillor Jade Wellings positive use of the “rundown but significant and loved building” will bring benefits to veterans and the community.

“As the wife of a veteran, I am surrounded by veterans, young and old, many of whom are facing various struggles,” Cr Wellings said.

“It was suggested to me by many young veterans that they are looking for things to do, especially those that do not involve alcohol.

“This proposal gives veterans a good positive project, meaning, purpose and an opportunity to be part of a community and to develop friendships ... a great outcome for the Takura and Fraser Coast community.”

Originally published as Veterans to give former school a new lease on life