Agreement reached on National Marine Science Centre

The University of New England (UNE)and Southern Cross University (SCU) have reached in principle agreement on the sale of UNE's share of the National Marine Science Centre at Coffs Harbour to SCU. The sale is subject to ministerial approval.

The National Marine Science Centre (NMSC) has been jointly owned by both universities since its inception in 2002.

The transfer of ownership reflects the strategic directions of both universities.

UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Alan Pettigrew said the sale was in line with UNE's strategy of focusing on rural and inland regional issues.

"Our core strengths in the sciences have always been in rural science and land-based agriculture, and this is where we will be focusing our attention for the foreseeable future," Professor Pettigrew said.

All of the students currently enrolled in marine science programs with UNE will be able to complete their awards.

SCU Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Clark said the move would enable SCU to expand its interest and expertise in marine science and coastal issues. The NMSC is based at Coffs Harbour - where SCU already has a well established and growing campus.

"Southern Cross University is committed to further developing a dynamic research and teaching agenda in marine sciences and other associated areas at the NMSC," he said.

Professor Clark said that having the NMSC under the management of a single university would greatly simplify its operations.

"This will enable Southern Cross University to strengthen its important research and teaching on Australia's marine environment," he said.

The NMSC was conceived as part of Australia's Oceans Policy and constructed with a grant from the Commonwealth Government's Centenary of Federation Fund.

Photo: The National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour.