Curtin University and Shire of Coolgardie Forge Groundbreaking Partnership

Published on Tuesday, 7 November 2023 at 2:00:00 PM

Shire President, Malcolm Cullen with Vice-Chancellor, Professor Harlene Hayne

The Shire of Coolgardie has today inked an historic collaboration with Curtin University, a global leader in high-impact research, innovative education, and pioneering industry partnerships.

Signed at Curtin’s Kalgoorlie campus, the Memorandum of Understanding aims to build on the University’s long term contribution to the region, promote sustainable development and foster a mutually beneficial relationship between the academic and regional community.

Curtin is recognised for its commitment to delivering outstanding education in an inclusive, collaborative environment — and has a longstanding connection to the Goldfields.

Notably, the globally acclaimed WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy, and Chemical Engineering was established in Coolgardie in 1902, after the town sparked the great gold rush of 1892.

Today, the region is a burgeoning hub for processing critical minerals such as lithium, which are essential components for clean energy technologies such as electric vehicles, wind turbines and more.

The new agreement will build on Curtin’s deep-rooted ties to the region and reinforces the Shire’s commitment to Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and fostering collaboration with industry.

This is especially important for the mining sector, which contributes more than 80 per cent of the Shire's income.

The collaboration will offer diverse opportunities for the region's growth, with the partnership’s emphasis on initiatives which promise to transform Coolgardie and foster greater regional and global attention.

Shire of Coolgardie President Malcolm Cullen said the collaboration aligned with the Shire’s overarching goal of promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability while addressing the needs of its community.

"The Shire of Coolgardie is honoured to announce this transformative partnership with Curtin University, he said.

“Together, we aspire to intertwine the rich history of our region with cutting-edge research, education, and sustainable practices.

“This collaboration is a significant step towards building a more prosperous and resilient future for our community."

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