Sports hub open at uni

FEDERATION University’s new health and sports precinct was officially opened last Friday by Federal Minister for Education, Dan Tehan.

Offering state of the art facilities and technology for those studying health and sports at the university, the $16.5 million space will be a hub for research, especially for sports scientists.

The building boasts a strength and conditioning room, up-to-date sports science technology, a refreshed swimming pool and aquatic therapy pool, a rehabilitation clinic, community gym and interactive learning areas.

FedUni vice-chancellor and president, Professor Helen Bartlett said the precinct will serve athletes and students from grass roots to elite level.

“Community and sporting groups right across western Victoria will have access to world class sporting facilities at our Mt Helen campus, and the opportunity to partner with Federation University on cutting edge health and sports research,” she said.

“Federation University has undergone significant transformation over the past three years and is in a strong financial position.

“We’re excited to be investing in major projects like our health and sports precinct, and to strengthen our partnerships with government, industry, sporting and community groups.”

Now, the tertiary campus’ sporting ovals and infrastructure opposite the new building are set to be improved.

Works on a synthetic oval and courts, spectator pavilion, car park, new learning and research spaces, and public transport access is set to cost $50 million and is in planning.

Hoping to partner with local, State and Federal governments, and industry to develop these new plans, the university should be investing at least $20 million.

FedUni is a global university partner of the World Academy of Sport.