Bray Park State High School has launched a multi-million dollar Discovery Centre to give local teenagers direct access to the same heavy machinery and high-tech tools used by professional Australian tradespeople.
The school officially opened the new precinct on 13 March 2026, marking a major milestone for the Moreton Bay region. The project was funded through the Queensland Government’s Growth Project to help the school keep up with the massive number of new families moving into the area.
Training for the Real World
The new facility is designed to feel less like a traditional classroom and more like a modern workplace. Inside the automotive section, students are already working on mechanical projects and have even started building go-karts to race at the Willowbank track.
This approach allows them to learn about engineering and teamwork by actually doing the work rather than just reading about it in a textbook. Executive Principal Peter Turner noted that industries are currently desperate for skilled workers, and this centre is meant to fill that gap.
Advanced Technology for Local Teens
One of the most impressive features of the new building is a professional-grade CNC router worth $70,000. This machine is the same type used in large-scale construction and manufacturing shops across the country.
By learning how to operate this equipment now, students gain a significant advantage when they eventually look for jobs in the building or design sectors. The centre also includes four dedicated labs for robotics and design, two large construction rooms, and a specialised media suite for film editing.
Supporting a Growing Community
Over the last seven years, the school has seen its student population jump from 800 to more than 1,900 people. This growth is largely due to new housing developments in nearby areas like Dayboro. Mr Turner explained that more local families are now choosing Bray Park State High School over private schools because the facilities and career programs are so strong.
Along with the technical workshops, the building also includes 12 new classrooms and a dedicated space for First Nations programs, ensuring all students have the support they need to finish their education.
Focusing on Student Wellbeing
Beyond the saws and software, the school has also prioritised the mental health of its students. The Discovery Centre houses eight private offices for wellbeing professionals, providing a quiet space for teenagers to seek guidance or support. This focus on the whole student, combined with practical career training, is intended to help the youth of Moreton Bay move confidently into their future careers.
Published Date 14-March-2026
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