"I'm living in the 70s."
Trundle Central School principal John Southon said this popular Skyhooks hit plays in his mind every time he steps into his school's science lab.
That's because the lab hasn't been upgraded since the 1980s.
The classroom is so outdated students can't even use computers because the power supply isn't equipped to handle the demand.
But not for much longer.
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In last year's State Budget $300,000 was set aside to upgrade the science lab, as part of the NSW Government's plan to rebuild public education.
Construction is planned to begin in late April and expected to be completed by Term 3, around July-September
It's been a long-time coming - Mr Southon said he's been trying to get an upgrade since he arrived in Trundle 10 years ago and is thrilled State Member for Orange Phil Donato has been able "to do it".
"It sounds like a lot of money but by the time you look at the size of it (the lab)," Mr Southon said.
"When I walked into the science lab in 2015 it was a disgrace... Maintenance costs are through the roof, it's well and truly overdue.
"The lab has the same desks, sinks and power points that those who are now teaching used to have as students.
"It's the same science lab I had as a student at Moree High."
The work involves replacing and repositioning work benches, upgrading gas and electrical lines, replacing the vinyl floor coverings and painting the lab.
It'll also include upgrading the preparation room and storeroom.
"The great thing is we can purpose-build it for us," Mr Southon said.
"It's not a classroom equipped for 30 kids like you might get in the city, we only get 15 or so."
Not only will it benefit the students, but so too the four other central schools (Peak Hill, Tullamore, Tottenham and Yeoval) who are part of the Western Access Program that includes Trundle and who come to Trundle for study days twice a term.
And Mr Southon hopes it will help him retain staff - in fact he has a new science teacher starting this year.
"Instead of coming to a 1970s rundown lab, they'll be coming to a state-of-the-art lab," he said.
"And in winter time it won't be absolutely bitterly cold."
Mr Donato stopped by Trundle Central at the end of January to catch up with Mr Southon and take a look at the aging lab.
"I was pleased to be able to assist John in securing this funding, which will benefit not only students from Trundle but also other schools who use their lab," he said.
"The Trundle community are truly fortunate to have such a strong advocate, passionate educator and principal.
"John always has his students and the community front and centre in his mind.
"I look forward to seeing the lab get its long overdue facelift."
