The initial phase of electrifying the campus, which began in 2023, has already reduced gas usage by 70 per cent. This shift aligns with a broader statewide initiative to transition to sustainable energy sources.
A significant part of this transformation is the $21 million Dookie Campus Student Accommodation project, co-funded by the Victorian Government. This new student accommodation building will operate entirely on renewable electricity.
“Healthy and sustainable agriculture is pivotal to our society, and it is fitting that Dookie campus, our home of agricultural research and teaching, is a leader in transitioning to renewable energy options,” University of Melbourne Dean of Science Professor Moira O’Bryan said.
The university is also developing a long-term program to replace gas infrastructure with renewable energy alternatives, as detailed in its 2023 Sustainability Report. This initiative is part of the university’s goal to achieve climate-positive status by 2030.
“We know that reducing our carbon footprint is a top priority for many of our staff and students,” acting chief operating officer Katerina Kapobassis said.
“The 2023 Sustainability Report outlines the strong foundation we have built at the University of Melbourne, and while there is plenty of work ahead, we expect these initiatives to yield many more positive results as we approach 2025.
“It is our responsibility as a university to champion sustainable operations, lead sustainability research, and teach sustainability to our students.”
The university’s commitment to sustainability is highlighted by its ranking as the ninth best in the world in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds Sustainability Rankings.
- Greater Shepparton City Council is installing speed cushions and kerb extensions along Sutton Rd in Shepparton. After conducting traffic counts on Sutton Rd in 2021, council observed that over 25 per cent of vehicles were travelling at speeds of 55km/h and above, despite the allocated speed limit of 50km/h. This prompted the implementation of Local Area Traffic Management measures in the area. Works began on Wednesday, June 5, and should be completed by the end of the week.
