As the new Academic and Research building at CQU Bundaberg is nearing completion, a “milestone” celebration has been held (June 7) to acknowledge the substantial contribution from the Federal Government towards the project.

Of the $4.7 million required to build the new facility, the Federal Government has provided $1.9 million from DEST Capital Development Pool funding with the remaining $2.8 million from CQU.

Acting Head of CQU Bundaberg Dr Helen Huntly said inclusion of a science laboratory meant chemistry and biology students would now have science facilities easily accessible on the campus.

Dr Huntly said the facility would also contain dedicated research facilities, some committed to information technology/multi-media/interactive journalism research. Academic staff offices and a meeting room would also be included.

There will be two new buildings, operating as one complex, for design and operational functionality.

Photo: Acting Head of CQU Bundaberg Dr Helen Huntly with Federal MP Paul Neville, at the milestone celebration for the new Academic and Research building.