A vision of Geelong’s future

Their project “Vital Signs – Alternative Futures” envisages a Geelong 80 years from now.

Deakin doctoral student Tom Barker is one of the project’s contributors, and said creating the concept was a fantastic experience.

“The opportunity of working with City of Greater Geelong, Geelong Gallery, Geelong Library and Deakin, to avert dystopia by exploring future possibilities and breaking through technological frontiers for the city, was an invigorating, exciting and eye-opening experience.”

Jarrod Argent, Julie Pham, Jack Hirini and Blake Sipek also worked on their project.

Their concept sees the city manufacture a Mediterranean Riviera climate, cooled by abundant green roofs made accessible by commuter drones, living green facades, parasols covering city blocks, and more than 10 hectares of urban agriculture.

The concept also anticipates the sea level rising, and subsequently incorporates non-corrosive building materials make it possible for Geelong’s streets to extend into Corio Bay with underwater living spaces.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said she was excited to see Geelong students forwarding the city’s tradition of innovative design.

“Congratulations to Jarrod, Tom, Jack, Julie and Blake on reaching the finals of the Premier’s Design Awards – what an outstanding achievement.

“The clever and creative design thinking used by these students is exactly what we’re hoping to see more of as we plan for Geelong’s future and build our reputation as a UNESCO City of Design.”

The project is a finalist in four award categories: student design, digital design, design strategy and communication design. It is the only entry to be selected in more than two categories.

The winners of the award will be announced on November 21.