In the early 1940s, the Brisbane suburb now known as Wavell Heights was merely a segment of West Nundah, an area primarily recognised for its rural landscape. The winds of change began to blow in 1941 when the local Progress Association sought to rebrand the district, ultimately deciding on the name Wavell Heights.
The year 1942 marked a pivotal moment for this growing community. The Wavell Heights Progress Association, which recognised the need for educational infrastructure, petitioned for the establishment of a local school. After considerable deliberation over potential sites, a parcel of land bordered by Minore, Burradoo and Kuran Streets was selected in 1947. This decision set the stage for a transformative period in the suburb’s history.
To meet the immediate need for educational facilities, the Department of Public Works acquired a military building from Redbank in 1947. This structure, once a temporary wartime edifice, was adapted to serve as a provisional school. Modifications ensured adequate lighting and ventilation, creating a conducive learning environment. On 27 January 1948, Wavell Heights State School officially opened its doors, with Mr George Hull as the inaugural head teacher and an initial enrolment of 113 students.
From Rural Beginnings to a Thriving School Community
As the suburb flourished during the 1950s and 1960s, the school experienced exponential growth, with student numbers peaking at nearly 900. This rapid expansion necessitated the construction of additional school buildings, replacing the original temporary structure, which was sold and removed in 1955. However, from the 1970s to the 1990s, the school witnessed a gradual decline in enrolment, stabilising at around 200 students.
In 2011, a devastating fire razed several classroom blocks, sparking a remarkable transformation. Rising from the ashes, the school constructed a modern teaching block for years 5 and 6 students, complete with music, art and Japanese rooms.
Among the distinguished leaders of Wavell Heights State School, Garry Drummond-Gower stands out for his remarkable 21-year tenure from 1988 to 2009, leaving an indelible mark on the school’s development and community. Following closely, Thomas Stevenson guided the school through 13 transformative years from 1959 to 1972, shaping its early growth. Additionally, John Catoni made a significant impact with his two separate terms totalling five years and six months, demonstrating a continued commitment to the school’s progress.
These long-standing principals, along with all the others, have played a pivotal role in the school’s enduring legacy, contributing to its evolution and success over the decades.
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
- Meet the Author Behind New Land Girls Novel
- Strum Up Fun at Northern Suburbs Country Music Socials
- A Day in the Life of a Community Transport Driver
- Charlie’s Village: A Caring Environment for People Living with Dementia
- Jurassic Fun Unleashed at DinoFest
- Melinda Schneider Celebrates Doris Day’s Magic in Concert
- No-Waste Wardrobe Event Inspires Creative Reuse
- Award-Winning Local Social Enterprise Secures Council Contract
- Nundah Festival Celebrates Community Spirit and Local Talent
- Club Chermside Applies for Safety Grant After Robbery
- Discover Water Polo: Free Junior Come and Try Sessions
- What’s Hot Around Town
Photos courtesy of Wavell Heights State School Archives
