The University of Newcastle is a dynamic, research intensive University ranked in Australia’s top 10. The University has an international reputation for expertise in innovative approaches to teaching and learning. 26 000 students attend.
What is the University of Newcastle doing to help the environment?
The Tom Farrell Institute at the University of Newcastle
In 2006, The Tom Farrell Institute for the Environment was established by the University to effectively build long-term collaborative partnerships with industry, business, government and the community in promoting environmental sustainability in the Hunter Region, NSW and Australia.
The Tom Farrell Institute offers access to a high level of environmental expertise including: Biodiversity, built environment, climate change, waste management, resource management, wetlands, sustainability, ecotourism & water management.
Tom Farrell (1904–1996) was one of Newcastle’s early environmentalists, making invaluable contributions to the conservation of the Hunters’ nature reserves including Blackbutt, Barrington Tops and Mount Sugarloaf. He also was key community member who exerted pressure on the NSW Government to establish a University College in Newcastle in 1951 and was instrumental in having the State Government acquire land at what is now the Callaghan Campus.
The Institute partners with industry, business and government to conduct research and community projects to answer important scientific questions, address immediate issues and develop long term strategies. Projects aim to promote clean air, water and land, ecosystem health and repair, resilient communities and cultures and a strong and sustainable economy.
A series of public Forums are held throughout the year which brings together government, industry and business leaders, researchers and the community to inform, build networks and develop opportunities for environmental partnerships.
Scholarships are also provided for outstanding research students to recognise excellence in academic studies and provide the extra financial support necessary for University of Newcastle students to further their environmental sustainability research.
