Boonah State School

1. The Boonah State School originated as the Dugandan Provisional School. Following the establishment of their residences, local selectors sought educational opportunities for their children. On January 19, 1878, James Johnson submitted a request to the Department of Education for the establishment of a provisional school. Upon receiving approval from the Department, the parents promptly constructed a slab hut measuring 20 by 12 feet on the designated school reserve, approximately where the current police station is located. Enrollment statistics from 1878 indicate that there were 9 boys and 12 girls registered. The initial slab hut was eventually replaced by a more substantial building and was relocated to Church Street for use as a barn.  At that time, Boonah State School offered education only up to class 5. For academically inclined students, annual examinations were conducted, and a fortunate one or two would receive scholarships to pursue further studies at Grammar School, as no other options were available. In 1916, the Department proposed the establishment of a rural school in conjunction with Boonah State School. The Boonah Rural School commenced operations at the end of 1919, alongside various enhancements to the existing buildings. This Rural School catered not only to Boonah but also to the surrounding regions. The original structure remains in use today. Recently, Boonah State School commemorated its 134th anniversary. With the recent addition of a multi-million dollar Resource Centre and Multi-Purpose Hall, the school continues to play a crucial and vibrant role within the Boonah community.