Interactive info centre opens in Gladstone
CQUniversity’s immersive and interactive Hydrogen Central swung open its doors to the Gladstone community for the first time at the weekend.
Hundreds of locals - from parents and kids to business representatives - took the opportunity on to experience what the new centre has to offer at the official community launch event on Saturday.
The community information centre is located at CQUniversity's Gladstone Marina campus and aims to coordinate hydrogen industry events and build awareness of the region’s growing clean energy sector.
Open to the entire community, Centre Project Manager Dr Cal Devney said people interested in hydrogen, science, the environment – and also those just keen to enjoy hands-on activities – turned up to the event.
“It was great to see community members learn, interact and explore the future of hydrogen in an engaging way,” Dr Devney said.
From electricity generation using renewable energy kits to molecule creation from sticky atoms, there was plenty to see, do and learn at the Centre which is now officially open and operational.
“The Centre will generate research projects planned to support a broader community understanding of the opportunities of the hydrogen industry in Queensland and will also enhance community awareness of the emerging hydrogen industry, boosting community confidence in hydrogen as a clean, reliable and affordable energy supply.”
Rio Tinto General Manager of Refinery Decarbonisation Tim McDougall said Rio Tinto was proud to support CQUniversity and the Hydrogen Central Centre.
“It’s great to see so many locals have come to have a look,” Mr McDougall said.
“At Rio Tinto, we know how important it is to get behind local research and education.
“Right here in Gladstone we’re securing more renewable energy and storage projects to try to keep our operations cost-competitive and ensure the long-term viability of the Boyne Smelter and the Yarwun and QAL refineries.”
McDougall said many of the technologies that Rio Tinto would need in the future don’t exist yet.
“Which is why it’s important for students - including our potential employees of the future - to get involved in science!”
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said the opening of Hydrogen Central was a “fantastic milestone” and one that would educate, inspire and provide valuable information to not only our community, but visitors to our region as well.
“The emerging hydrogen industry is one that Gladstone is proud to be at the forefront of as we transition towards becoming a green energy powerhouse.
“It is also a key component highlighted within the 10-year Gladstone Region Economic Transition Roadmap,” Cr Burnett said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Hydrogen Central put to good use and congratulate CQUniversity on this achievement.”
The initiative is funded by the Queensland and Australian Governments as part of the Stanwell-led Central Queensland Hydrogen Hub.
