Wulgurukaba people of Gurambilbarra
Queensland
North Queensland
The design for the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab draws from the technologically advanced and sustainable focus of the training provided at the facility. A client driven ambition to target a 5 Green Star ‘Buildings’ rating meant that efficiency and sustainable outcomes were prioritised. This included solar power, energy efficient services, and a thermally and acoustically insulated building envelope.
Drawing from the industrial setting, the exterior consists of metal and fibre cement cladding. Articulated roof geometries and the use of premium materials, however, distinguish the building as more than just a tin shed. Products and finishes selected for the project also carry ‘green’ certifications demonstrating best practice standards for health, carbon-footprint, sustainability and social responsibility.
Specialist facilities advanced training utilising virtual reality work in parallel with traditional workshops, to ensure graduates are positioned to contribute to the growth of the North Queensland renewables sector.
Purpose-built to reflect the sustainable future it teaches, this facility sets a benchmark in environmentally responsible design. A roof-mounted 187.55kW solar array is modelled to generate 189% of the building’s annual energy needs, dramatically reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Rainwater harvesting supplies toilet flushing, urinals, and landscape irrigation, while both construction and operational recycling programs target major reductions in landfill waste.
More than 80% of construction waste, including timber, steel, plaster and masonry, was recycled through licensed contractors, with materials such as crushed concrete reused on site. The building targets a 5-Star Green Star rating, with energy-efficient services and has a thermally and acoustically optimised envelope. Certified low-carbon and sustainable materials further enhance the project’s environmental credentials.
Though industrial in purpose, the architecture transcends utilitarian norms: the articulated roof forms, fibre cement and metal cladding, and refined detailing distinguish it as a civic asset. Within, advanced training in virtual reality and clean energy technologies equip students to lead Queensland’s renewables transition.
The new Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Training Facility and Advanced Manufacturing Skills Lab, marks a significant step forward for the Townsville Trade Training Centre in Bohle.
For over 140 years, TAFE Queensland has been at the heart of Queensland communities. The facility will continue this legacy by training skilled workers for emerging industries like hydrogen power, electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability for the region. The facilities combine traditional workshops with state-of-the-art technologies (including virtual reality) to equip students with the skills required for the jobs of tomorrow.
Lloyd Jones, Graduate of Architecture
Tess Grace, Project Architect
Daniel Sorbello, Project Architect
Jacqui Sue Yek, Project Architect
Alex, Project Architect
CHERIE BRISCIANI, Interior Designer
HK Solutions, Electrical Consultant
HK Solutions, Services Consultant
STP Consultants Townsville, Structural Engineer
STP Consultants Townsville, Civil Consultant
dsquared, ESD Consultant
Renzo Tonin & Associates, Acoustic Consultant
Landplan LA, Landscape Consultant
Gilboy Hydraulic Solutions, Hydraulic Consultant
Qbuild, Project Manager