THE loss of industries could see a change of direction for George Town's Port Dalrymple School.
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Port Dalrymple School assistant principal Lynette Burt said that the school's curriculum, as well as its enrolments, faced changes if Rio Tinto Comalco and BHP Billiton Temco's production ceased.
``We'll lose numbers, certainly, a lot of the parents here are sub-contractors,'' Ms Burt said.
``Even the school programs are determined by the industry - we run classes in engineering, sheet metal fabrication and automotive mechanic training.''
The school's strong focus on trainee and apprenticeships is a sign of how much the town relies on the big industries.
``We just have to go about our day-to-day business, which is teaching kids,'' Ms Burt said.
``However, it usually takes about four, five or six weeks to notice a change.''
George Town residents yesterday expressed their concern for families involved within the area's industrial sector.
``It's terrible, I know a lot of people that work at Comalco,'' Jaci Kennedy, of George Town, said.
George Town Mayor Roger Broomhall said that Rio Tinto still had not given an official statement.
``We have been in close contact with their general manager through communications officer Lou Clarke,'' Cr Broomhall said.
A desirable outcome could still be on the cards for the industry giant, according to general manager Stephen Brown.
Modern facilities and a high-quality product added to the likelihood of Comalco remaining open, he said.
Discussions for the future of the Bell Bay port are still being held, despite the difficulties experienced by its industry.
Cr Broomhall said the Bell Bay Industrial Group was continuing successful negotiations over the possible return of international shipping to the port.
