Severe Mould Infestation Forces High School in Broken Hill to be Demolished and Rebuilt

Willyama High School in Broken Hill, NSW, is facing a significant crisis as a severe mould infestation has been uncovered, prompting the need for the complete rebuilding of the school premises. The infestation, deemed as a stage three mould issue, has been attributed to various factors such as routine carpet cleaning, a lack of natural ventilation, and the operation of the air conditioning system, which created a moisture-rich environment conducive for mould growth. Human pathogens like Aspergillus and Penicillium were also found within the building, raising concerns about potential health risks posed by the infestation.

The report indicated that the infestation likely originated in a ground floor music room and spread throughout the building via the air conditioning vents, pointing to a combination of factors including wet weather and maintenance practices contributing to the mould problem. Lead paint and asbestos were additionally discovered during the inspection, further complicating the situation for the school. The report highlighted overcrowding and inadequate storage facilities at the school as factors that hindered routine cleaning, allowing organic debris to accumulate and potentially serve as a breeding ground for mould.

Despite the challenges posed by the need to demolish and rebuild Willyama High School, the NSW Education Department asserted that it is not considering merging Willyama High with Broken Hill High. Plans are in place to relocate all students to a temporary school at Broken Hill High starting from the next term, with consultations scheduled to involve staff and students in decision-making processes. Broken Hill mayor Tom Kennedy expressed relief at the decision to rebuild Willyama High and emphasized the importance of maintaining two separate schools in the area for the city's future. Additionally, the community is urged to remain open to potential adjustments if the temporary school arrangement proves to be ineffective, with hopes that the rebuild process will take approximately two-and-a-half years to complete.