Monash Memo - 26 September 2001

Back to this edition's story list

Prato centre launched in fine style

Monash Centre in Prato, located in the heart of Italy's Tuscany region, was launched with a grand opening ceremony on 17 September.

More than 120 people attended the function held in the Grand Salone and were entertained by a quartet from the Monash

University Music Ensemble. In adjoining rooms were displays of the first European exhibition of Dinosaurs of Darkness from the Monash Science Centre and a collection of contemporary art from the Monash University Museum of Art.

Vice-chancellor Professor David Robinson thanked the centre's major benefactors, Mr Rino Grollo and Mrs Diana Grollo, for
their continued support of the university's drive to develop a global network of campuses and centres. He said these enabledAustralian students, researchers and professional and industry groups to become actively engaged in international communities.

Mr Tom Hazel spoke on behalf of the Grollo family, who were unable to attend the ceremony. He said the family wascommitted to the development of tertiary education in Australia and, through partnerships like those with Monash, to promoting greater links with Italy.

"This is something we are committed to both morally and financially," he said. "We are sure that only good can come from this venture in Prato."

The ceremony was attended by Italian and Australian dignitaries including the centre's patron, Sir James Gobbo, and the Australian ambassador to Italy, Mr Murray Cobban.

Centre director Professor Bill Kent said the Monash Centre in Prato was the Italian expression of Monash's vision to be a leader in the worldwide advancement and application of knowledge.

"Monash Prato will bring Australia and Italy closer together by showcasing achievements and promoting understanding and will provide a venue for learning, teaching and research in the service of both the Australian and Italian communities," he said.