Australian Sahaja Primary School Important Update – 20th Dec 2021

Australian Primary School
Important Update

HH Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi School

Dear Family,

Jai Shri Mataji!

Dear Yogis and Supporters of the Sahaj Australian Primary School,

Certain events have occurred that result in the Balmoral Sahaj property no longer being available as the location for the Sahaj Primary School.  This letter provides a short description of what has occurred and also points to new opportunities that are emerging.

Environmental reports

Over the last few months, a series of reports were prepared by expert consultants covering aspects such as bushfire, environment, waste water, traffic, building certification and so on, as part of a standard procedure in making an application to the Wingecarribee Shire Council for the planning and development approvals for a school at Balmoral.  Consulting fees have been paid for these reports.       

Major factors

This approach was undertaken following early indications of support for the project from the Shire council particularly in the light that Sahaja Yoga is a very respected and positive part of the local Balmoral community.  However two factors have resulted in a decision to discontinue our efforts for the school to be located at Balmoral.  The first factor is the effect of and ensuing risk resulting from the December 2019 bushfires which destroyed a large part of the Balmoral area but miraculously did not significantly impact on the Sahaj property and assets.  The second factor is the sacking by the NSW government of the Wingecarribee Council and the appointment of an administrator to replace the council.  The severity of the bushfire has created heightened concern within all government agencies and the instability in the council has meant that they are unable to make a decision at this time and recommend that we do not continue to spend money in the face of a very uncertain and most likely negative outcome.  

Looking at alternatives

While the board and trustees felt that the bushfire concerns could be adequately addressed to keep our children and staff completely safe, we have accepted the outcome and are moving to look at alternative options.  For example, there are two dis-used schools currently for sale in Queensland, both within a few hours of Brisbane.  Initial investigations indicate that either could be suitable for our school. Board members have already visited one of the properties and are planning a visit to the second one. The schools are being sold through real estate agents and carry all the usual issues of purchasing property such as requirements for inspection due diligence and financing.  Additionally in our case we need to consider the regulatory requirements with the respective local and state governments to start a school. Our target remains to be operational as soon as possible with an aim to commence in 2023. 

Asking for Her guidance

In all of our deliberations, we have surrendered to our Mother and Guru and asked for Her guidance.  We all feel that the recent events are simply milestones on the journey to achieve the aim of establishing a Sahaj School in Australia in the way that Shri Mataji knows is best. 

Next Q&A session

We are planning to hold a Q&A session early in the new year so that we can provide further updates to parents and the whole Australian collective and where you will have the opportunity to make any suggestions and ask any questions that you might have to the Board. 

Thank you for your support

We thank all those yogis who have supported the journey so far through contributions of effort, expertise, finances and interest and ask you all to continue your support for this project and to provide your bandhans and prayers for the best possible outcome. 

Kind regards
Life Eternal Education Ltd, Board of Directors.

Shri Mataji with Her many children