The Rainforest School Celebrates Handover Of 30-Year Lease

Creators of ‘The Hut’ Arlen, Noah, Angus, Zepher and Hayden. Photo Credit: Sian Bantock

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By Sian Bantock  

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The Rainforest School, at Frogs Hollow in South Mission has celebrated a shared community milestone after securing a 30-year lease to remain on its current premises. This major milestone reflects the dedication and perseverance of the school community, volunteers, Cassowary Coast Regional Council and many other supporters who helped make it possible.  

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The Rainforest School is a government-accredited independent primary school which offers the full Australian Curriculum from Prep to Year 6. Their classrooms are multi-age and approach teaching through creativity, in an environment that feels like home rather than a traditional classroom. Students also participate in practical programs away from the classroom such as a kitchen/ garden program where they develop life skills learning about healthy foods and sustainability. 

The achievement comes two years after the school lost its previous premises at Dundee Park in the 2024 floods. The new lease provides certainty and stability so the school can plant roots at Frogs Hollow.

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An official handover ceremony was held on Friday 14th August attracting strong support across the local community. 

Proceedings began with Leonard Andy and Melissa Kelly who welcomed those in attendance to Djiru Country. 

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“This is a significant milestone and one that reflects the commitment, vision and hard work that has gone into establishing the school and creating opportunities for the community,” Melissa Kelly said.

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“Djiru is proud to continue supporting The Rainforest School and to work alongside you as you move into this next chapter. We value the relationship we have built and look forward to continuing that partnership in the future.” 

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Guests also heard from Cr Trudy Tushci and Member for Hill Shane Knuth, Board Chair Fiona Nicotra and Principal Carolien Franken.  

Some of the students also shared their hopes for the future:  

“I hope this school lasts forever,” said Year 2 pupil Ted.

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“I hope that students find this a happy place for learning and having fun,” said Bee from Year 4.  

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“I hope the hut stays forever,” said Year 5’s Hayden.

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The Hut, which has become a staple of the school's grounds over the last term was built by Hayden and his friends using sticks collected from the surrounding rainforest and cut grass provided by the school's caretaker to create a roof.  

Constructed entirely by the students in their own time without the help from teachers or parents, the project stands as a shining example of the school's philosophy of encouraging curiosity, creativity and teamwork with nature as the backdrop. 

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The celebrations also looked to the future; Principal Carolien Franken honoured the day by burying a time capsule which was filled with hopes and dreams for the future, to be unearthed and opened in 2036. Teacher Ian Stewart showcased the school’s musical talents, performing alongside the students. Finally, a tree was planted; a symbolic gesture of growth and permanence.

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“What excites me most today is not the lease itself, it is the future it makes possible, the memories yet to be made, the friendships yet to be formed and the stories yet to be written,” said Principal Carolien Franken. 

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“Because ultimately this has never been about land or paperwork, it has always been about the children, about creating a place where they feel connected. A place where they are known, a place where they can grow into capable compassionate and resilient young people and a place, they can call home.” 

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The Rainforest School Spring Fair will take place on Saturday 5th September, which is a family-friendly celebration with local food stalls and refreshments available. The community is invited to attend from 10am - 2pm. 

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