Supporters of the concept
A number of regional schools, further education providers, community groups and industry bodies have expressed support for the concept of a sustainability and innovation education facility at the Samford Parklands site. Below are some short extracts from letters written in support of the EOI for The Fulcrum.
“The Samford Commons proposal is of critical importance because Samford is well positioned to become the official sub-regional innovation and sustainability location for the oration bay region. The Sustainability and Innovation Learning Hub at Samford Parklands will be ideally placed to champion, advocate and support the local sector innovation in this area and beyond.”
Annette Griggs“The Fulcrum will add value to the Moreton Bay innovation ecosystem and provide a creative maker space to champion, advocate and support local innovators and entrepreneurs of all ages. Samford Common’s programs will build awareness for the region whilst developing an understanding of sustainable principles and the circular economy.”
Leanne Kemp“MBRIT supports and endorses the concept of an innovative learning hub based at Samford Parklands that will enhance and develop the regional capability in sustainability, innovation and entrepreneurship. This concept would provide highly interactive learning models that will be a catalyst for creative ideas, foster entrepreneurship, and set a benchmark for sustainable education.
This bold, future-focused approach will embed sustainability and innovation principles into the local economy while creating economic and social value for the community.”
Shane Newcombe“The concept of the Fulcrum complements the goals of SERF both in terms of the research domains it aspires to, as well as its proposed partnerships. We can see opportunities to work with the Fulcrum in the future, for example sharing knowledge and expertise as part of collaborative learning activities with participants at the Fulcrum. Such activities will enable people to explore contemporary thinking around environmental issues and translate this to practical outcomes for more sustainable communities.”
Dr Bek Christensen“Our core skills in delivering world-leading STEM Programs to students and teachers will be a key asset in the setup of the Sustainability and Innovation Learning Hub. This will grow the interest in STEM, highlight innovative industries in the region, and stimulate economic growth.
STEM Punks ® believes that Samford Commons is well positioned and has the expertise and track record to deliver the project for our wonderful Moreton Bay Region.”
Michael HolmstromEndorsements from schools in the region
“Our established STEM Program, including a progressive Agriculture Program, recognises the potential and need for a Sustainability and Innovation Learning Hub to complement our school programs.
Ferny Grove State High School is interested in being an anchor school for the program, providing a conduit to the State Education System and development of a school governance model for the proposal. The concept of the Sustainability and Innovation Learning Hub aligns with our own school vision of providing life-long learning, preparing students for participation in a sustainable global community.”
John Schuh“We see the Fulcrum proposal as an exciting initiative that will provide an exceptional education experience and propel the region into a more sustainable future for our students and the community.
Having the Fulcrum where students could come together on ‘neutral,’ safe ground for workshops, conferences, and even Startup or Hackathon Weekends would be a game changer for our community and our students. The Fulcrum would provide other schools and students in the Moreton Bay Region with access to learn and experience environmental stewardship where they would otherwise never get the opportunity.”
Mr Nigel Grant & Dr Renae Jones“We are very keen to be involved in many ways in this exciting opportunity at Samford with the Hub, to work with like-minded community members, industry partners and other schools or universities to provide students with exciting programs in entrepreneurship, the arts, the environment, sustainability and science to further their understanding and provide understanding in global futures thinking, as well as benefits to the local community.
This project has so many possibilities and Samford Valley Steiner School are fully supportive and interested in being part of co-designing several aspects for futures learning.”
Tracey Taylor