Church battling to save its home

Pine Rivers Uniting Church is challenging plans to take its Kallangur home of more than 100 years - and build a new school.

The State Government has told the Uniting Church of Australia, Queensland Synod, it intends to compulsorily acquire the site at 30 Narangba Road.

A spokesperson for the Department of Education says it is for a new special school, but the church has a right to object and can claim compensation.

“A decision to proceed with a compulsory acquisition process is not made lightly and due process will be undertaken,” the spokesperson said.

The Uniting Church of Australia, Queensland Synod says it has lodged an appeal.

“We believe there remains a genuine opportunity for the State Government’s plans and the church’s long-standing ministries to coexist on this site,” a statement said.

“We are currently awaiting a decision.

“We want to be clear we welcome investment in education and recognise the need for specialist schooling in our growing community.

“Our position is not opposition, it is about finding a way to make this work for everyone. We would welcome the school as part of our community.”

Plans for a new special school in Moreton Bay were in last year’s State Budget to provide “enrollment relief” for Pine Rivers Special School.

At the time, Moreton Daily was told a site had been earmarked (but not identified) and a new special school could open in 2028 or 2029.

Councillor Yvonne Barlow (Div 7) presented a 61-signature petition to Moreton Bay City Council last month and said: “All I can do is plead for the church.”

“I am very concerned it would be bulldozed,” Cr Barlow said “and more upset there was no consultation over this.

“I understand the need for special schools, but I know the special role the church has played in the community for many, many years.

“They will get money, but that doesn’t help a church which has been there for more than 100 years. There’s a great deal of sentiment.”

It is understood the neighbouring aged care facility is not part of the acquisition, but residents would lose a church just metres away.

Pine Rivers Uniting Church provides worship, pastoral care, youth programs, emergency relief, mental health support, chaplaincy and help for those doing it tough.

Its weekly emergency relief program serves more than 70 families in Pine Rivers and Kallangur - many referred by agencies, chaplains and council.

“At a time when many in our community are experiencing increasing pressure, the potential loss of these services would have a real and lasting impact,” the church statement said.

“We have consistently sought to engage constructively and respectfully with the State Government – through correspondence, meetings and invitations for Ministers to visit the site – so they can see the breadth of what happens and explore options that allow both priorities to be met.

“This is not simply about land. It is about people, those who rely on these services, those who volunteer and the many who call this place home.”