Council land sale paves the way for new high school in North Sale

Wellington Shire Council has finalised the sale of over 8.5 hectares of land to the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) for the new Sale College campus.

This landmark sale will help drive the overall development of North Sale, supporting growth in one of Wellington Shire's fastest-growing areas.

Council approved the sale of land at its 20 August 2024 meeting with a contract subsequently signed between Wellington Shire Council and VSBA on 6 November 2024. The land was sold at current market value as assessed by the Valuer General Victoria.

The land is located at the corner of Gibsons and Cobains Road in Sale and will be transformed into a new campus for Sale College, bringing modern facilities and long-term benefits for students attending.

Plans for the North Sale precinct, which already includes the Gippsland Regional Sporting Complex (GRSC), envision transforming it into a vibrant hub that combines education, sport, and housing.

Future growth plans include enhancing sport and recreation opportunities, expanding residential development, and establishing an early years hub with 122 combined childcare and kindergarten places. These developments will be supported by road upgrades, including improved drainage and a new intersection at Gibsons and Cobains Road.

In response to the land sale, Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Scott Rossetti said that he was thrilled to see this project finally moving forward.

“The sale of this land is a win-win for education and community development, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact it will have for locals including students.

Further adding, “the Gibsons and Cobains Road precinct in North Sale is set to become a hub of activity, marking another exciting step forward in shaping the growth of Wellington Shire’s future.”

The staged relocation of Sale College will ultimately bring students and staff together, moving away from the existing two-campus model spread across the Macalister and Guthridge campuses.

While funding for the construction of the new campus is yet to be allocated by the state government, Wellington Shire Council and Sale College look forward to hearing an announcement shortly. Meanwhile, settlement of the land sale will occur this financial year once the required subdivision has been completed.

Council is already planning key infrastructure upgrades, including traffic management and drainage measures to support the development of the area.

Quote attributed to Principal of Sale College, Brendan Staple

“I am excited that this important step toward a quality state school upgrade in Sale has taken place.

“I look forward to it being realised in the future and providing an equal amenity to other schools in Wellington Shire”

‍