Queensland Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, the Honorable Tim Mulherin, today opened the $33 million Centre for Advanced Animal Science at The University of Queensland Gatton Campus.
The collaborative venture between UQ and the Queensland Government has seen the design and construction of an extensive and unique range of animal research facilities, which will attract some of the world’s leading scientists to UQ.
UQ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Greenfield, said Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries and Smart State Research Facilities Fund support for CAAS highlighted a commitment to scientific research as the basis for sound policy and practice.
“CAAS is the way of the future – cutting edge infrastructure created by a joint venture between government and UQ, with a strong industry focus,” Professor Greenfield said.
Facilities at CAAS include biosecurity containment rooms for disease and vaccine research, grouped and individual animal pens for nutrition trials, a feed processing shed and cattle handling yards.
CAAS researchers will investigate ways to reduce greenhouse emissions in livestock, ensure greater beef supply through a tick vaccine and improve biosecurity.
Professor Roger Swift, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Veterinary Science, said CAAS research had the potential to impact the agricultural industry in Australia, and internationally.
“With the issue of global food shortages now becoming a key topic, CAAS will allow researchers to look into ways of increasing the quantity and quality of food using sustainable practices, particularly in tropical environments,” Professor Swift said.
“I’m pleased that this new Centre will encourage university and government researchers to collaborate on high-profile projects which will be of direct benefit to our primary producers, and will ensure Queensland’s continued economic development and growth.
“I would particularly like to acknowledge S2F, the CAAS architects, as well as McNab Constructions and local sub-contractors, who did an excellent job on such a complex and highly technical project.”
Media: Penny Robinson at UQ Communications (07 3365 9723, 0413 601 248, penny.robinson@uq.edu.au)
