On Wednesday, 1 November 2023, Ormiston College held the Official Opening of their latest facility, a state-of-the-art Science Precinct featuring 21st century relevant learning spaces to cater for the increase in student numbers studying Science.
The Official Opening was attended by guest speaker, Dr Momar Hughes, Ormiston College Alumni 2010, John Miller, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ormiston College, invited guests, College staff and students.
College Captains, Josh Larkin and Paris Tzaneros, commenced the introduction of the event, which was followed with the opening speech by Headmaster, Brett Webster.
“The new purpose-built precinct will re-imagine the traditional learning environment and provide all Ormiston College students with the opportunity to learn and understand scientific principles while experiencing a sophisticated, future-focused learning environment,” said Headmaster, Brett Webster.
Dr Momar Hughes, who has completed his PhD in Aeronautical Engineering at UNSW since graduating from Ormiston College, addressed the assembly and reflected on how Ormiston College students would benefit from the new facility. The new Science Precinct plaque was unveiled by Dr Momar Hughes alongside the College Captains, the Headmaster and Chairman of the Board. Guests were entertained with a musical presentation by the Big Band students from the Music Department.
The opening of the Science Precinct follows the establishment of other Ormiston College facilities in the schools 35-year history, including the Lingo Lin Performing Arts Theatre (1998), the Ormiston College Aquatic Centre (2000), the Somerset Sports Centre (2004), the Junior Arts Centre (2010), the Centre for Learning and Innovation (2018) and most recently the Athletics Precinct (2021).
The two-story building, built with funding from the Queensland State Government, includes nine science laboratories, two general learning areas, toilet and changeroom facilities along with additional outdoor gathering and handball spaces.
For Junior School students, the new Science Precinct will bring a dedicated science laboratory, set up for younger students with age-appropriate workspaces and furniture, enabling increased access to specialist science facilities where they can safely and confidently participate in hands-on science investigations.
The teams from Blueprint Architects and Rohrig Group were engaged to design and build the new Science Precinct. They were tasked with replacing the original science building with a facility that would encourage innovation and flexibility, foster engagement and interaction whilst ensuring safety and functionality. The result is a state-of-the-art Science Centre that will stand the test of time.
