Navy help swoops into Malibu

Malibu School received a helping hand last week from navy personnel and Rockingham and Kwinana tradespeople who are pitching in to give the school a new outdoor area.

Brick pavers were ripped up, trees were cleared and the school’s administration block was repainted on Monday in a community project that continued into the week.

Chief Petty Officer Trevor Syme has been coordinating the navy volunteers and said the crew was pleased to continue its relationship with the school.

‘‘Given Malibu is the only school of its type in the area we’re happy to help,’’ he said.

‘‘Today we’ll be clearing the area to get ready for the other tradespeople to come in so it’ll save the school about $9000.

‘‘Most of these guys would rather be out here helping out than sitting in the office.’’

Malibu School registrar Sally Parker said the work by the navy and tradespeople during the week would be a ‘‘massive’’ help.

‘‘We wouldn’t have been able to afford the work ourselves, so it’s been really great,’’ she said.

‘‘Potentially, what would’ve cost about $50,000 is only going to cost us $10,000 and the kids don’t know it’s happening, so it’ll be a great treat for them by the time school starts again in two weeks.’’