NQBP delivers book boost to port schools

4 Jun 2020
Community

Four primary schools will receive hundreds of new books to replenish classroom libraries to boost reading rates thanks to North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP).

NQBP’s $8,000 donation to Dymocks Children’s Charities secured Slade Point State School, Alligator Creek State School, Merinda State School, and Western Cape College places in the Library Regeneration program.

CEO Nicolas Fertin said NQBP is proud to partner with Dymocks Children’s Charities on their mission “to change kids’ lives, one book at a time”.

“Our ports span the generations in our north Queensland communities,” Mr Fertin said.

“That’s why we are so pleased to be able to play our part in supporting this wonderful initiative to encourage kids in our local port schools to unlock the power of reading.”

The program is designed to restock libraries with brand new books of the schools’ choice.

“Raising literacy levels has flow-on wellbeing benefits not just for students, but for their families and communities,” Mr Fertin said.

Dymocks Children’s Charities Program Manager Emily Hall thanked NQBP for its support in the Charities’ critical mission to promote a love of reading and improve literacy outcomes for all Australian children.

“We provide brand new books to children in priority locations throughout Australia, because children who are exposed to books and read regularly from a young age have better educational outcomes and lead healthier and happier lives,” Ms Hall said.

The donation was made possible through NQBP’s 2019-20 Port Communities Sponsorship and Donations program.

  • Alligator State School’s 300 students will receive 236 new library books, worth $3,988
  • Slade Point State School’s 200 students will receive 260 new library books, worth $3,997
  • Merinda State School’s 55 students will receive 226 new library books, worth $3,996
  • Western Cape College’s 960 students will receive around 170 new library books, worth around $3,999

Alligator Creek State School teacher and librarian Sandra Amoore said the grant has enabled students to borrow new book series and different genres.

“Our library has renewed old classics and explored fresh subject interests,” Ms Amoore said.

“We have been happy to expand our community engagement through partnering opportunities. Thank you so much.”

Editors notes

NQBP Contact
Amanda Blines | Senior Advisor Community Relations
(07) 4969 0774 | ablines@nqbp.com.au

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