News and Events
First sod turned to start construction of new Catholic Primary School at Drouin
December 2025
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DOSCEL
Turning of Sod
Construction is set to start on the new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School to serve the rapidly growing community of Drouin in West Gippsland.
The milestone was marked by the Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet turning the first sod on the 12-hectare site on the corner of llawarra Boulevard and Weebar Road, Drouin.
He was joined by Fr Brendan Hogan – Parish Priest, and Mr Paul Velten – Executive Director of Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL), along with members of the DOSCEL Board, representatives of the project team, and St Ita’s Catholic Primary School principal and students.
DOSCEL
Contemporary Learning
The project will deliver Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the School’s Masterplan. This will include administration facilities, eleven general learning areas, art room and library, outdoor learning areas, staffing facilities, and a multi-purpose space. External works include playgrounds, an oval, a covered external hard court with an additional hardcourt, extensive landscaping, and parking.
The combined cost of the two stages is $26.7million, supported by two $6 million grants from the Victorian Government Capital Funding Program (VGCFP) 2023-2027, and loans from the Catholic Development Fund (CDF).
The name of the school honours the life and mission of Saint Oscar Romero, a former Archbishop of San Salvador, who was assassinated for championing the poor and oppressed. His legacy embodies peace, reconciliation, justice, and mercy.
DOSCEL
Project Time Frame
The school is planned to open in 2027 with an initial enrolment of 98 students growing over time to accommodate 300 students.
Mr Paul Velten – Executive Director of Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL), said the new school will meet strong demand for faith-based, modern, and affordable education for families close to home.
“The new St Oscar Romero Catholic Primary School will be the second Catholic primary school in the St Ita’s Drouin Parish, complementing St Ita’s Catholic Primary School, Drouin which has experienced increasing enrolment demand.”
The project is being led by Y2 Architects and Melbcon Construction Company.