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Knowledge precinct set to create jobs
2 August, 2005
The University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with
both the Maroochy Shire Council and Education Queensland to
establish a 'knowledge precinct' adjacent to the University
campus.
The parties will work together to generate a knowledge precinct
for the region and develop new employment opportunities.
The agreement will allow education, training, high-tech business
development, employment generation, community infrastructure
provision and research to identify advantages to each of the
parties and the Sunshine Coast.
University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Thomas said the
agreement was a continuation of the thoughtful development of the
Sippy Downs community to the mutual benefit of local
stakeholders.
"Job generation is still one of the highest
priorities for this part of the Sunshine Coast," Professor
Thomas said.
Maroochy Mayor Joe Natoli said the council and the community
should be setting the bar high for the type of future the Coast
wanted including "a new way of thinking to develop strong community
partnerships".
"We're hoping to generate high quality jobs and just a really
unique precinct," Mayor Natoli was quoted as saying.
Education Queensland director-general Ken Smith said by working
together the three parties can maximise the benefits of investment
of government and of the schools to the benefit of the local
community.
"We have an information communications technology centre within
the university that not only serves the Sunshine Coast are, but
across the state," Mr Smith said.
In addition to the knowledge precinct, a sporting centre of
excellence is also being planned.