Kowanyama State School

Overview

Fleetwood partnered with the Queensland Department of Education to deliver an early years precinct at Kowanyama State School, located in one of Cape York’s most remote communities.

Funded under the ‘Great Schools, Great Future’ initiative, the project included 18 modular buildings that cater to Kindergarten, Long Day Care, and Parental Care functions. Additionally, it features three outdoor play areas, a sealed car park, upgraded fencing, and necessary demolition works.

Cultural connection is an integral part of the design, featuring custom murals and native landscaping inspired by the local environment and the spirit animals of four tribal groups, which reflect the area’s identity and uniqueness.

Solution

Fleetwood successfully completed this remote project using a full turnkey solution, which included all aspects, from modular design and off-site construction to logistics, installation, and civil works.

Due to road access being cut off during the wet season, the team carefully timed the delivery to fit within a limited seasonal window. The modules were designed to withstand cyclones, constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, and insulated for energy efficiency.

Additionally, a contractor camp was established locally through a land lease with the Abm Elgoring Ambung Aboriginal Corporation. Community consultation was conducted in partnership with Tania Major Consulting to ensure that cultural protocols were respected throughout the project.

Benefits

The Kowanyama Early Years Precinct was designed to deliver lasting educational, cultural, and structural value for one of Queensland’s most remote communities. Fleetwood’s modular approach enabled fast, high-quality delivery, while the design ensured long-term performance in tropical conditions.

• 18 cyclone-rated modular buildings delivered in just 5 months

• Energy-efficient insulation and corrosion-resistant finishes suited to Cape York’s climate

• Indigenous Kokoberra artwork, displayed in murals and local landscaping, reflects the spirit animals of four local tribes

• 3 outdoor play areas designed for safe, inclusive learning

• Sealed carpark, upgraded fencing, and demolition of outdated infrastructure

• Built in collaboration with local stakeholders, including a contractor camp established via land lease with the Abm Elgoring Ambung Aboriginal Corporation