Murwillumbah High School: A Legacy of Learning Since 1929

Perched on the hillside overlooking the Tweed River, Murwillumbah High School (MHS) has been shaping young minds and community spirit for nearly a century. Located on Riverview Street in the heart of Murwillumbah, this government-funded, co-educational high school is a proud part of the Northern Rivers story — one built on connection, resilience, and excellence in education.

A School with History in Its Walls

The story of Murwillumbah High began in the 1920s, a time of optimism and community ambition. In 1924, after much debate and anticipation, the Department of Education selected an eight-acre site on Hartigan’s Hill for the new high school — a spot that would soon become one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

Four years later, on 17 March 1928, the foundation stone was laid during a memorable ceremony. Parents, students, Girl Guides, and Boy Scouts gathered as the Minister of Education inspected the Guard of Honour — and just as the rain threatened to dampen the day, the clouds parted and sunlight streamed through. It was an auspicious start for a school destined to become a cornerstone of the Murwillumbah community.

In 1929, Murwillumbah High officially opened its doors as a full high school, proudly welcoming students from across the district into its newly built three-storey complex — a structure that still stands as a symbol of tradition and pride.

Murwillumbah High School Opening Day: 1929

Growth Through the Decades

Over the years, the MHS campus has evolved alongside its community. The 1960s saw major development as new facilities rose across the hillside site. Construction continued through the 1970s, shaping the multi-level layout that defines the school today.

One of the most enduring legacies from that era came in 1970, when librarian and careers advisor Bruce Chick led a bicentennial project to plant a Hoop Pine forest on the school’s southern edge. Each student planted a tree to commemorate Captain Cook’s voyage past Mount Warning (named by Cook in 1770). The forest remains a living reminder of MHS’s deep roots in both history and community.

By the 1990s, the school’s population peaked at around 1,300 students, prompting major new developments including a modern Library (1992) and the Elliott Centre — the school’s multi-purpose hall, opened in 1997 and named in honour of respected former principal Joe Elliott.

Today, Murwillumbah High serves a vibrant student body from Years 7 to 12, guided by a commitment to academic achievement, personal growth, and community engagement. Under the leadership of Principal Zoe Tiernan, MHS continues to nurture future generations of learners, leaders, and innovators.

Our Symbols and Spirit

The school colours — navy blue and white — have come to represent integrity, perseverance, and pride. The school badge and motto were chosen in 1928 through a student competition that drew dozens of creative entries. The winning designs by Helen Brown and Jack Trevitt set the tone for the school’s enduring identity.

That same year, the school published its first yearbook, The Parnassian — named for the Greek Mount Parnassus, home of the Muses and symbol of learning and creativity. Nearly a century later, The Parnassian continues to be published annually, chronicling the life and achievements of the Murwillumbah High School community.

A Future Built on Proud Foundations

From its beginnings on a windswept hillside to its role as a hub of innovation and inclusion today, Murwillumbah High School has always been more than just a place of learning. It’s a living story — one written by generations of students, teachers, and families who have called MHS home.

As we look toward the future, our foundations remain the same: community, courage, and curiosity — the spirit that has defined Murwillumbah High School since 1929.