FutureNet Business Leader Programme 2021

Highly regarded across the industry, Consult Australia’s FutureNet Business Leaders Programme has been running annually for more than a decade.

Through sixteen sessions delivered over eight months the programme builds on existing personal strengths, identifies and develops new strengths and skills, and broadens networks.

Course participants also complete a multi-disciplinary team project supported by an accomplished industry mentor. The project takes participants out of their comfort zone and puts into practice the skills and knowledge developed through the course.

Winning project teams are selected based on both a public vote and their presentations to a panel of expert industry judges.

People's Choice Award

99 Problems But a DA Ain't One

The Meadowbank School project is a sustainable learning hub which will act as a connector between primary, secondary, vocational education and the local community. The primary drivers for this development is to support Department of Education's Strategic Plans and City of Ryde’s 2028 Community Strategic Plan by way of an integrated community-school campus, that will address increasing population pressure, celebrate City of Ryde’s multicultural background and unique identity, provide more green spaces for the local community and revitalise the surrounding areas.

The development aims to inspire the students and the local community by demonstrating environmental, sustainability and wellbeing leadership and protects the local environment. The design will target a 5 Star Green Star rating and operation will be net zero carbon. Environmental initiatives such as PV power generation, rainwater collection, electric car/bike charging points will be showcased publicly. The colours and design of the school are inspired by the local native flora, and the construction materials are chosen with durability and reducing embodied carbon in mind. In response to COVID-19 and student wellbeing, classrooms will have the facilities and flexibility for remote learning, perimeter rooms will be naturally ventilated to flush out contaminants and high contact areas will be sterilized regularly, and ventilation systems will have UV sterilization.

Judges Award

More Than Textbook

The NSW Government has announced a $6.7 billion investment scheme over four years to provide new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. Population forecasts predict a growth of 30.58% over the next 20 years within the City of Ryde.

To service the changing population, the greater Ryde community is facing an ever-growing need for a precinct to service community, government, and business. The project aims to connect education, culture, and business into one community precinct, promoting lifelong learning not just for students, but for the whole local community. The Meadowbank Learning and Cultural Precinct creates an environment that is liveable, sustainable, and productive.

The precinct features a community and cultural centre that includes a 21st century library with multimedia spaces / recording studios, a gallery and function space to house revolving exhibitions and events, community gardens and a co-working hub which caters to the flexible working community and promotes the growth of small businesses. Ancillary facilities include a café and childcare facilities to support the fully integrated community precinct.

2022 FutureNet Business Leader Scholarship

Scholarship Winner

ESTHER SOON

From: SMEC