Repurposed cane fields, a revered architectural mind, and an enduring vision will be celebrated on Friday 23 October when the University of the Sunshine Coast hosts a free guided tour and presentation.

As part of Sunshine Coast Open House program and in recognition of  UniSC’s 30th anniversary, special insight will be given into the original planning and design of the Sippy Downs campus. 

Passionate urban design afficionado Associate Professor Nicholas Stevens is helping to coordinate the evening event, set to be packed with interesting facts. 

One of Dr Stevens’ favourite pieces of trivia is the link between UniSC Sippy Downs and the designer of Australia’s Parliament House, Romaldo Giurgola.

“Indeed, Romaldo had significant input toward the original UniSC masterplan, at a time when he’d already been feted around the world for his works,” Dr Stevens said. 

“That a regional campus established on a patch of former cane farming land had such an esteemed figure involved in its design is rather remarkable. 

“There are many idiosyncrasies behind the design of UniSC that may not be initially apparent, and I’m delighted to be playing a role in bringing those to light.” 

Discussion will cover the breadth of history from campus conceptualisation up until the most recent Sippy Downs masterplan.  

Guest speakers include Lindsay Clare (Clare Design), Dr Noel Robinson OAM (Noel Robinson Architects), John Mainwaring (Hollindale Mainwaring Architects), and Damian Thompson (LatStudios).  

The tour and presentation forms part of the Sunshine Coast Open House program. 

Planning and Design of the UniSC Campus – campus tour and presentation 

• When: Friday 23 October 2026, 4:30pm–6:30pm 
• Where: Lecture Theatre 7, Building C, UniSC Sunshine Coast
• Free event. Catering provided. Booking required 
• Booking link