SCI FI PI

In a strange and wonderful 'life mimics art' moment, the University of Queensland is planning on building a Eureka style town on the fringe of western Brisbane. The Courier Mail reports that the University is seeking approval from Brisbane City Council and the Queensland State Government to build a township for around 10,000 people - where up to 4500 elite scientists from around the globe can gather and invent things that probably and hopefully won't blow us all up, like that dastardly Large Hadron Collider and its plans for world domination via black hole replication.

Reports the Courier Mail:

Vice Chancellor Paul Greenfield yesterday said the university was seeking approval from the State Government and Brisbane City Council to have the site - formerly part of the School of Veterinary Science - included in the "urban footprint" to enable the township to proceed.

"It's been in the too-hard basket for 20 years but we feel the time is right to proceed," he said.

Professor Greenfield envisaged the town would be "green and open to the community", attracting top scientists.

From its humble beginnings 98 years ago, UQ has developed into a world leader in neuroscience, biotechnology, nanotechnology and mining engineering.

Architect Michael Keniger, the university's deputy vice-chancellor, stressed the need to involve the community in the huge project.

"Any proposal will be developed jointly with the community," Professor Keniger said.

A green corridor along the riverfront would be preserved, he said.

"Because we are not a commercial entity, we are not looking for a buck for every square metre."

Professor Keniger said the project may take 15 years to complete.


"We know there are sensitivities and we would like to find out more," he said.

Professor Greenfield said an inquiry was planned for next year to gauge public sentiment.