Queensland Police Service called to Harristown State High School after Toowoomba secondary school receives alleged threat | Education | Crime

Students and staff of a Toowoomba secondary school were forced into lockdown after threats were allegedly made to the school. More details here

A major Toowoomba high school was forced into lockdown after an alleged threat was made to the school.

Police were called to the incident at 10.55am on Wednesday and the lockdown was deemed over by about 1pm.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said students were evacuated to the school oval while authorities performed a search of the premises.

Police at Harristown State High School as it was placed in lockdown after threats were allegedly made to the school. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The spokeswoman later confirmed a student allegedly brought a “suspicious” package to the school and police were treating it as a bomb threat, but following a lengthy search of the school, police said nothing to this description was found on site.

A Queensland Department of Education spokesman said police investigations into the matter were ongoing and they were unable to provide further details.

Harristown State High School students and staff on the oval as the school was placed in lockdown after threats were allegedly made to the school. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“The department is aware of a threat received at Harristown State High School at

approximately 10:30am (on Wednesday),” the spokesman said.

“The Queensland Police Service was notified and the school followed the

department’s protocol for responding to threats.

“QPS attended the school and classes resumed after being given all the clear by

police.”

The spokesman said parents and caregivers were also informed about the incident.

He confirmed all staff and students were safe and well and guide officer support was available for students who required it.

Police at Harristown State High School as it was placed in lockdown after threats were allegedly made to the school. Picture: Kevin Farmer

A letter was issued to parents by Harristown State High School acting principal Leanne Monagle on Wednesday afternoon, stating police were at the school for about two hours.

“Once the school was cleared by QPS, students were released from evacuation location,” the letter said.

“From Period 7 (and) 8, classes resumed across the school.

“I would like to thank our staff and students for conducting the evacuation in a calm and responsible manner.

“Rest assured, the safety and welfare of your children is out utmost priority.”

Ms Monagle thanked parents for their support of the school and reminded them support for students was available if required.