Tensions erupt between nature school and Lions in squabble over historical community building in Denmark

Formerly known as Spirit of Play, a not-for-profit charity and private school, Kwoorabup Nature School originally held a three-year lease from the council and — after struggling to find a new location — has held a periodic lease. Now the school is looking to expand its presence. During that time, Kwoorabup has shared the heritage-gazetted precinct with other groups, including the Denmark Lion’s Club, which has lobbied over the years against the expansion of the school on the basis it interferes with other community clubs and the development of the area as a historical precinct. Denmark Historical Society Deputy Bev McGuiness said the community had no problem with the school, but it was a shared space for the community and Kwoorabup had far extended its original lease agreement. The Lion’s Club was reportedly not told by either the school or the council about its upcoming eviction and approached Denmark council to inquire about it. When asked about the potential for the school to be successful in gaining the lease, Denmark Lion’s Club president Lyell Edmonds said the move would “certainly weaken the club, but there are no plans for disbandment”. Kwoorabup school has responded to allegations of forcible eviction stating that alternative arrangements with community groups had been sought. “Kwoorabup Nature School wants to celebrate the reserve collaboratively with the Lions and the Historical Society — the all or nothing narrative being put forward by some individuals is misinformation and a misrepresentation of what is being proposed.” Intergenerational and community collaboration is being sought by the nature school. If successful, the Nature School has offered the use of the station master’s building for the Lion’s club’s monthly meetings. Lions deputy president Roger Seeney said this arrangement would hinder the Lions’ ability to continue to give back to the community and it was no compromise at all. “It’s a real kick in the guts and there’s a real feeling of despair within the Lions at the moment,” Mr Seeney said. The Lion’s club plans to petition the council at the next meeting in April to reconsider the lease for the Nature School.