Work is underway on the Flannery Centre which is due to be completed in mid 2011.
Central West Group Apprentices and Skillset are constructing a world-class carbon efficiency skills centre on a three hectare site in Bathurst.
The centre is named after 2007 Australian of the Year Professor Tim Flannery because of his leading role in highlighting climate change issues.
“Essentially, this is a centre for the community as we respond and adapt to changes in our environment,” said Ben Bardon, CEO of Central West Group Apprentices & Skillset.
“It is a place where individuals can do technical training in a range of different qualifications, but it will focus on sustainable technologies training.”
Humanity is now living in ways which outstrip the capacity of Earth to provide an equitable, healthy lifestyle for future generations. With 6.7 billion people, a number of planetary boundaries have been reached, which will drive fundamental changes to the way we live and work.
Central West Group Apprentices and Skillset’s vision is for life to thrive on a finite planet. Their mission is to inspire, lead and learn our way to a positive future.
Central West Group Apprentices and Skillset’s goals are:
- To provide clarity about the issues we face
- Assist businesses and individuals adopt sustainable practice
- Conduct programs and offer services that increase community wellbeing
The focus on sustainable methods of operating is becoming increasingly important, with the introduction of ‘green’ units into trade courses having already started taking place – The Flannery Centre will be at the forefront of the development and provision of ‘green skills’ specific courses and studies in environmental management.
The centre is currently under construction with the frames and timber work having recently been erected, and the roofing to commence in the coming weeks. The construction of the centre has also produced a number of jobs, with the majority of building contracts being awarded to local businesses.
To mirror the centre’s ‘green’ objectives, Skillset and Central West Group Apprentices made the commitment to build the first 6 star Green Star education building under the new standards. This is the highest rating available and reflects world’s best practice. As a result, the Flannery Centre will have extremely low energy demand for heating, cooling and lighting – ensuring the centre is built with a reduced ‘ecological footprint’.
To offset the emissions from the construction process Skillset has established a Voluntary Carbon Offset Program in Timor Leste. The program has established 6 community nurseries in the highlands around Laclubar and will plant 100,000 trees this year. The first 48,000 will be planted this month.
The Flannery Centre is set to be completed by the middle of this year.
Visit the Flannery Centre website
