New student centre official opening tomorrow

Southern Cross University’s new $1.4 million student centre opens officially tomorrow, March 12, and it is without doubt an eye-catching landmark in Goodman Plaza as well as being a great meeting point.

It feels like a living, breathing space where students and staff can connect and visitors can feel welcome and wanted; it is a place where information is available in many formats, where questions and lifelong learning are encouraged and where personalised help is available to all.

The centre is being opened at 3.30pm by Southern Cross University Chancellor the Honourable John Dowd AO QC and Professor Paul Clark the Vice-Chancellor.

Staying true to Southern Cross University’s commitment to regional engagement, keeping the project local was important to the University, said Carl Rallings, Student Services group director.

“The Centre was designed by Lyons Architects and built by Bennett Constructions, a staff vote was held to decide the colour scheme, and local suppliers and subcontractors were preferred,” Mr Rallings said.

“It was a truly local partnership that provided tangible benefits to our region from day one. The project finished ahead of schedule, on budget and the quality of the build has not been compromised; it incorporates low energy lighting and green materials wherever possible.”

The Southern Cross University Student Centre offers an air conditioned, comfortable, well-lit space with wireless internet access. Students and staff are welcome to use the lounge areas to write assignments, conduct business, hold a study group session or catch-up with friends. If privacy is required, there is even a secure and quiet interview room available for staff and student bookings.

Visitors can use one of the 14 self-help computer terminals to apply for a course, obtain information, self manage their studies, use the online enrolment system, check webmail, access rapid print, My SCU, e-reserve and a host of other University services. For those who are less computer savvy, friendly staff including many ex-students, are available to assist, providing know-how, show-how and been-there help.

Equipped to deliver multi media presentations, the lounge areas are available for after-hours functions, promotional displays or artistic exhibitions, for staff, students and the community.

Photo: Southern Cross University’s new student centre has its official opening tomorrow, March 12, at 3.30pm.