Marine science students, researchers and industry will benefit from upgraded facilities and a new centre of excellence in Queenscliff, thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney and the Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant today officially opened the upgraded Deakin University Queenscliff Marine Science Centre that will provide hands-on learning opportunities, enhance marine research and benefit both industry and the local community.
Students will get the unique opportunity to gain skills in priority areas such as sustainability, environmental protection and climate change resilience through the new aquarium and high-performing computer labs, which will deliver Deakin's Bachelor of Marine Science - the only dedicated undergraduate marine science degree in Victoria.
The tour also included Deakin's new Integrated Water Management plan in action - at the Waurn Ponds campus -which not only improves water quality and biodiversity but supports cutting-edge sustainability research.
As part of the Integrated Water Management Plan, a network of ponds have been converted into a wetland system that will create a living laboratory for students and researchers to learn about water management and the impacts of climate change.
Both projects are supported by a combined $2 million in funding from the Allan Labor Government's $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, that invests in universities capital works, applied research and research infrastructure projects to boost productivity and Victoria's economy.
For more information about projects funded through the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, visit vic.gov.au/projects-funded-victorian-higher-education-state-investment-fund
As stated by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
"This new centre not only opens doors for students and researchers but it establishes Victoria as a leader in marine science and sustainability studies."
"Water management is an essential part of the clean economy and by backing projects like this we're not just supporting universities, we're supporting jobs and a more sustainable future."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"Deakin University's Integrated Water Management system at Waurn Ponds will give students a unique, hands-on learning experience in a living laboratory, while improving our water quality and biodiversity locally."
As stated by Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
"This exciting new centre will position the Bellarine region at the forefront of marine science education in Victoria and reinforce our reputation as a leader in cutting-edge innovation and research into environmental sustainability."
As stated by Deakin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Partnerships, Dr David Halliwell
"We're passionate about providing the best opportunities for experiential learning and applied research to empower the next generation of guardians to our waterways."
