School banned from using microphones, playing music has decision reversed
A Perth primary school can again use microphones and play music at their school assemblies after the local council reversed a decision to ban them.
The City of Cockburn, in Perth's south, banned St Jerome's church hall from using microphones and speakers after noise complaints from two neighbours.
The council said it enforced the ban after two 21st parties were held at the same hall the school uses.
Children at St Jerome's Primary can now enjoy assemblies inside. Source: 7 News
The ban therefore applied to the school.
"I was appalled," principal Helen O'Toole said.
"If you buy the house next to a school, you expect the sounds of happy school assemblies."
St Jerome's Primary. Source: 7 News
An inspector found the hall's noise to be 20 decibels above the allowed limit, and the council issued the blanket ban.
Mrs O'Toole was forced to inform parents in the school newsletter that assemblies would only be held outside.
The hall next door to St Jerome's Primary. Source: 7 News
But after negative media coverage, the decision was reversed with the school now permitted to make noise during school hours of 8am to 4pm.
Mrs O'Toole says she hopes the time restriction ban will be overturned as well, with the school hoping to host a quiz night fundraiser at the hall, to raise money for children.
