Beyond Borders: Breaking Down the Silos - Great South Coast

FAQs

• Do I have to attend both days?

  You do not have to attend both days but it is encouraged! The ticket price covers the cost of both days.

• Access Key

  Access Key 

  Beyond Borders: Breaking Down Silos – Great South Coast - Warrnambool 

  The Deakin Hydrogen Hub (Hycel Technology Hub) at Deakin University’s Warrnambool campus is located on the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara people.  

  This Access Key provides important information about the Hydrogen Hub (or Hycel Technology Hub), the venue for the Beyond Borders: Breaking Down Silos – Great South Coast. 

  An Access Key outlines key details about the building, location and accessibility features available to support all participants in planning their visit. 

  If you have any questions about access or specific requirements, please contact us using the details provided at the end of this document. 

   

  Gunditjmara Country 

  The Deakin Hydrogen Hub is located on the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara people, who have cared for this Country for tens of thousands of years. The Gunditjmara are known for their deep cultural knowledge, strong connection to land and waters, and sophisticated land and water management systems, including the World Heritage–listed Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, one of the oldest known aquaculture systems in the world. 

  This region forms part of a broader cultural landscape that includes significant sites such as Moyjil (Point Ritchie), where cultural practices, food systems, and knowledge have been sustained over generations. For Gunditjmara people, Country is a living system of relationships between land, waters, sky and community. Recognising their ongoing custodianship and leadership is essential to understanding both the deep history of this place and its future, including contemporary initiatives such as renewable energy and innovation. 

   

  About Warrnambool 

  Warrnambool is a regional coastal city in south-west Victoria and a key centre within the Great South Coast region. Known for its strong community infrastructure, education facilities and creative industries, the city plays an important role in supporting surrounding rural communities. 

  The city features the Warrnambool Library and Learning Centre, a modern public facility offering study spaces, digital resources and community programs. Warrnambool is also home to One Day Studios, contributing to the region’s growing creative sector. 

  Deakin University Warrnambool campus further strengthens the city’s role as an education and innovation hub, supporting research, training and industry collaboration, including renewable energy initiatives. 

  Located along the Great Ocean Road and near significant natural coastal environments, Warrnambool continues to develop as a vibrant regional centre, combining education, creativity and community services within the broader Great South Coast region. 

  Getting There 

  Hycel Hub is located: Deakin University, Princes Highway, Warrnambool, Victoria, 3280, Australia 

  Transport information for Deakin Hycel Hub (Warrnambool Campus) 

  Deakin University Warrnambool Campus, approximately 3 hours south-west of Melbourne. 

  Public Transport (from Southern Cross Station): 

  • Take a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station to Warrnambool 

  • Travel time is approximately 3 hours 20–40 minutes 

  • Services run a limited number of times per day, so advance planning is recommended 

  Arrival Options: 

  • Warrnambool Station (recommended): 

  • Main regional station with regular services 

  • From here, the campus is approximately 5 km away 

  • Accessible via local bus, taxi or rideshare (10–15 minutes) 

  • Sherwood Park Station (limited service): 

  • Located adjacent to Deakin Warrnambool Campus 

  • Not all trains stop at this station 

  • Directions to the Hycel Technology Hub can be searched in Google Maps if needed. 

  • For the most accurate route, search for Deakin Hycel Technology Hub, Warrnambool. 

   

  • From Warrnambool CBD 

  The campus is about 5 km from Warrnambool CBD 

  By Car 

  ⏱️ Travel time: ~8–10 minutes 

  Directions: 

  1. Start in Warrnambool CBD  

  1. Head north-east via Raglan Parade / Princes Highway  

  1. Turn onto Proudfoot Road  

  1. Follow signs to Deakin University  

  1. Enter campus → follow signage to Hycel / Hydrogen Hub  

  👉 Parking is available on campus (usually free or permit-based depending on area) 

  By Bus 

  ⏱️ Travel time: ~15–25 minutes 

  • Local buses run between CBD and Deakin campus  

  • Look for routes heading toward Deakin University / Warrnambool Campus  

  👉 You may need a short walk (5–10 mins) once on campus to reach the Hydrogen Hub 

  Walking and Cycling 

  • 🚶 Walking: ~50–60 minutes  

  • 🚲 Cycling: ~15–20 minutes  

  👉 Route follows main roads (Princes Highway direction) 

  Access to the Hycel Hub 

  • Once on campus, follow signage to the Hydrogen Hub (Hycel Technology Hub) 

  • The campus has step-free pathways and vehicle access 

  Important Information 

  • Public transport services are limited in regional areas 

  • Please check current timetables via V/Line before travelling 

  • Allow additional time for connections 

  For further assistance with transport planning, please contact the event organisers. 

  Safe Travels 

  Safe Travel Advice – Deakin Hydrogen Hub (Warrnambool Campus) 

  Participants traveling to the Deakin Hydrogen Hub are encouraged to plan and allow extra time for regional travel. 

  Seasonal Conditions (May–June): 

  • Early winter in south-west Victoria can bring heavy rain, strong winds and cold conditions 

  • Localised flooding may occur on roads, particularly in low-lying or rural areas. 

  • Bushfire risk is generally low at this time of year, but weather conditions can still change quickly 

  Travel Safety Tips: 

  • Check weather conditions before departure via the Bureau of Meteorology 

  • Monitor road conditions and closures via VicRoads - https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/ 

  • Allow extra travel time, especially when driving from Melbourne or surrounding regions 

  • If using public transport, confirm V/Line timetables in advance 

  Emergency Contacts: 

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 000 

  • State Emergency Service (SES): 132 500 (for flood and storm assistance) 

  • VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226 

  • Non-urgent Police Assistance: 131 444 

  Participants are encouraged to prioritize their safety and delay of travel if conditions are unsafe. 

  If you identify other useful resources or information, please contact YACVic to share them. 

  Venue 

  Venue & Cultural Design Information 

  Deakin Hycel Technology Hub – Warrnambool 

  The Deakin Hycel Technology Hub was designed using a “Codesigning with Country” approach in collaboration with First Nations consultants from the Gunditjmara/Maar Nation. The building was intentionally created to feel welcoming, connected to Country, and reflective of the local landscape and community. 

  Key design features include: 

  • The curved terracotta entrance was inspired by Gunditjmara eel baskets connected to the Budj Bim aquaculture systems, symbolizing gathering, invitation, and connection. 

  • Circular shapes throughout the building represent the six local mobs/tribes in the Warrnambool region and reflect ideas of equality, yarning circles, and collaboration. 

  • Interior colours and materials were chosen to reflect the surrounding environment, including eucalyptus, saltbush, and sandstone tones. 

  • The venue was designed to feel open, warm, and community-focused, rather than highly industrial or closed-off. 

  • Large windows and open spaces allow for significant natural light throughout many areas of the building. 

  • The space connects innovation, sustainability, education, and community through a culturally informed design process. 

  Sensory & Environmental Notes 

  • Many areas contain natural lighting which may become bright during sunny weather. 

  • The building is generally quiet outside of scheduled events and university activities. 

  • Open communal spaces may create some background noise during networking or catering periods. 

  • The venue has a modern university and research facility environment with minimal strong smells. 

  • Some areas may include polished flooring surfaces. 

  • Smoke-free environment - Please note that Deakin University campuses are designated smoke-free environments. Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes and vaping products, is not permitted within university buildings, entrances or surrounding campus grounds. 

   

  Campus Map 

   

  Function Room: Event Space – Hycel Technology Hub Lobby  The event will be held within the main lobby/function space of the Hycel Technology Hub (Hydrogen Hub). The space is located directly off the main entrance and foyer area of the building. Temperature  The building is climate controlled, with the standard room temperature generally maintained at approximately 21°C. Temperature may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and room occupancy. Lighting  The lobby space contains standard overhead lighting with a combination of natural and internal building light. Lighting levels are generally bright and consistent throughout the space. Flooring  The flooring within the event space is a smooth, hard surface designed for accessible movement throughout the building. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear suitable for standing and walking throughout the day. Seating and Layout  The event space will use a shared table and chair layout to support presentations, networking, and group discussions. Seating arrangements may vary slightly throughout the day depending on activities and workshop requirements. The layout is designed to support accessible movement between tables and walkways where possible. Audio Visual (AV)  The event space will include AV equipment, including: Microphones Speakers Presentation screen/display Moderate noise levels are expected during presentations and group discussions.
  Meeting room: Meeting Room Information – Hycel Technology Hub  The meeting room is located within the Hycel Technology Hub building and is designed as a smaller, enclosed collaboration and presentation space. Temperature  The room is climate controlled, with the standard temperature generally maintained at approximately 21°C. Temperature may vary slightly depending on occupancy and external weather conditions. Lighting  The room contains overhead fluorescent lighting providing consistent and bright illumination throughout the space. Limited natural light may be present depending on room location and time of day. Flooring  The meeting room has low-pile carpet flooring designed to support comfortable movement and reduce noise within the space. Seating and Layout  The room contains a shared meeting table with surrounding chairs designed for collaborative discussions, meetings and small group sessions. Seating arrangements may change depending on room setup requirements. Audio Visual (AV)  The meeting room includes integrated AV equipment, including: Large presentation screen/display Video conferencing camera/system Built-in table connection ports for laptops and presentations Moderate sound levels may occur during workshops Bathrooms & Accessibility Access  Accessible bathroom facilities are available within the Hycel Technology Hub building. Bathrooms are located within short walking distance from the main conference and meeting spaces. Female, Male and all-gender bathroom facilities are available onsite. Bathroom entrances are accessible via wide internal corridors. The venue is step-free throughout public areas and amenities. Lighting in bathroom areas is standard indoor lighting. Hand dryers and sinks are available within amenities of space. Bathroom doors may be heavier than standard. YACVic staff can assist attendees with wayfinding if required. Kitchen & Shared Amenities  There is a communal hub kitchen located within the building on the left-hand side of the main entrance. The kitchen space may be used by venue staff, university staff, and event organisers throughout the day. Tea, coffee items may be located within this area during the event. Background noise may increase during catering and break times. Food and coffee smells may be present around the kitchen area Emergency exit diagram: Emergency Procedures and Exits – Hycel Technology Hub  Emergency evacuation maps are displayed throughout the Hycel Technology Hub building, including near event and meeting spaces. Emergency Exits  Emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the building Exit pathways lead directly to external assembly areas Participants should follow staff directions and building evacuation procedures if required Assembly Area  The designated assembly area for this section of the building is: AA8 – Car Park 4, near Disability Parking Bays Emergency Information  The building contains: Fire extinguishers First aid points Emergency communication systems Clearly marked evacuation routes In Case of Emergency  Follow directions from Deakin University staff, wardens or emergency services Leave the building via the nearest safe exit Proceed to the designated assembly area Do not re-enter the building until advised it is safe to do so Accessibility Considerations  Participants requiring assistance during an evacuation are encouraged to notify event staff on arrival where possible, so appropriate support can be arranged if required.

  Accommodation 

  Very Close (2–5 km – 5–10 min drive) 

  🏡 NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park 

  4.4•Holiday park 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5565 1327 

  • ~2.8 km from campus  

  • Cabins + park-style accommodation  

  🏨 Comfort Inn on Raglan 

  4.1•Motel 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5562 2755 

  • ~3 km from campus  

  • Good mid-range option  

  🏨 Blue Whale Motor Inn & Apartments 

  4.3•Motel 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5561 2833 

  • ~3.3 km from campus  

  CBD Area (4–5 km – more food and walkable options) 

  🏨 Waves Motel and Apartments 

  4.3•Motel 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5562 8044 

  • ~4.5 km from campus  

  • Close to shops + beach  

  • 🏨 City Heart Motel Warrnambool 

  4.6•Motel 

  Directions•Website•0478 027 119 

  • ~4.7 km from campus  

  • Central location  

  • Good for walking to restaurants  

  🏨 Innova Motel Warrnambool 

  3.9•Motel 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5562 1277 

  • ~5 km from campus  

  🏨 Eight Spence 

  4.5•Motel 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5562 7144 

  • ~4.8 km from campus  

  • Close to train station  

  🏕️ Discovery Parks Warrnambool 

  4.2•RV park 

  Directions•Website•(03) 5561 1514 

  • ~5.5 km from campus  

  • Good for groups or budget 

   

  Parking 

  Car Park 2 is the closest parking area to the Hycel Hub building. It is located in front of the building and is approximately 200-300 metres walking distance from the venue. There is no marked pedestrian crossing, so please take care and be aware of traffic when walking from the car park to the venue. 

  There is one accessible parking space at the front of the building. 

  Activities 

  In the session, you will be asked to record your thoughts and ideas. If you would like, you can get support to do this.  

  The activities are mainly visual, and you are encouraged to talk to other people. There will be people to assist you with the activities if you would like support.  

  We encourage all participants to actively engage in group discussions and breakouts, and to be respectful by giving everyone time to speak and contribute.  

  Again, we encourage you to be present in all activities and we are happy for you to excuse yourself to another room if you would like to complete non-CoP activities/work.  

  Other Attendees 

  At the session there will be facilitators, multiple presenters throughout the day, and other people attending or organising the session. If you need an interpreter, this can be arranged on request with advance notice. Please contact the YACVic team directly to discuss this. 

  YACVic staff will be identifiable via a name badge, and you can ask any of them for support throughout the forum or conference. 

  • Epilepsy Trigger Warning 

  • We will be using an online polling and presentation program called Mentimeter. In presentation mode, the screen may flicker with incoming information. MCs and presenters will provide warnings prior to using presentation mode. 

  • Power access  

  • There will be some power points provided along the walls close to the floor. If you choose to plug in a device, please be aware of where it is and make sure it isn’t in danger of being stepped on or tripped over. YACVic will also provide a charging station with USB ports. 

  • Noise  

  • The event isn’t likely to be very loud. However, you can expect there to be loud chatter. You will also hear a quiet buzz of the air conditioning, some footsteps as people walk on the floor, the sounds of doors swinging open and at times some background music. During the session, you will hear people talking, chairs moving around, and people shuffling paper.   

   

  • What to bring: 

  • Comfy shoes, water bottle and preferred snacks  

  • Notebook and pen (however you prefer to take notes) 

  • Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and, if you plan to visit the river, swimmers and a towel. 

  Statement of Principles 

  This event is designed to be inclusive, respectful, and accessible for all participants. 

  We are committed to: 

  • Creating a safe and respectful environment
    Everyone is expected to engage respectfully and support a positive shared space.  

  • Supporting access and participation
    We aim to reduce barriers to participation wherever possible and respond to individual access needs.  

  • Providing clear information
    Information about the venue, program, and activities is shared in advance to support planning and comfort.  

  • Respecting different needs and preferences
    Participants are welcome to engage in ways that feel comfortable, including taking breaks or stepping out as needed.  

  • Maintaining a low-pressure environment
    Activities are optional, and there is no expectation to participate beyond your comfort level.  

  • Encouraging inclusive communication
    We support clear, respectful, and inclusive ways of communicating across diverse groups.  

  • Promoting a calm and supportive setting
    The event environment is designed to be low stimulation where possible, with consideration of noise, space, and sensory impacts. 

  Food and Coffee Options 

  Warrnambool has a wide variety of cafés, restaurants and casual dining options close to the CBD and Deakin University campus. Options range from coffee shops and casual lunches through to waterfront dining and evening restaurants. 

  Tripadvisor recommendations can be found here: 

  Tripadvisor – Warrnambool Restaurants 

  Some popular local options include: 

  • Bohemia Cafe & Bar – Popular café option for breakfast, brunch and coffee in the Warrnambool CBD. Frequently recommended for casual daytime dining. (Tripadvisor) 

  • Clovelly Restaurant & Bar – Modern Australian restaurant located near Flagstaff Hill, suited for dinner and group dining. Known for local produce and contemporary meals. (Tripadvisor) 

  • Cattleya Thai Restaurant – Well-known local Thai restaurant offering dine-in and takeaway options in the town centre. (Tripadvisor) 

  • Bundy's Bar & Bites – Casual restaurant and bar option suitable for shared meals, drinks and evening catch-ups. 

  • Lost Cat – Contemporary restaurant focused on seasonal and locally sourced dining, created by a former Melbourne chef returning to Warrnambool.  

  • Salt Restaurant Warrnambool – Evening dining option with a more formal restaurant setting. 

  • Rough Diamond – Café known for coffee and lighter breakfast/lunch options. 

  • Allee Espresso – Small laneway-style café popular for coffee and quick breakfast options. 

  • Sizzling Manila – Filipino restaurant offering casual lunch and dinner meals. 

  • Lady Bay Resort Restaurant & Bar – Restaurant option near the coastline and beach precinct. 

  • Seaview Warrnambool – Casual takeaway and fish-and-chip style dining close to the foreshore. 

  • Piccolo Coffee Roasters - CAFE – Local coffee roastery and café option. 

  For quick meals and takeaway, Warrnambool also has supermarkets, bakeries, pubs, fast food outlets and late-night dining options throughout the CBD and foreshore areas. 

  Things to Do in Warrnambool 

  Visit Flagstaff Hill: Explore the maritime history and enjoy the sound and light show curiouscampers.com.au. 

  Whale Watching: Experience the annual migration of whales along the coast visitgreatoceanroad.org.au. 

  Warrnambool Botanic Gardens: Stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy the scenery The Tourist Checklist. 

  Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve: Discover the wildlife and stunning landscapes in this volcanic crater curiouscampers.com.au. 

  Bay of Islands Coastal Park: Enjoy breathtaking views and natural rock formations Tripadvisor. 

  Contact the YACVic Team 

  Please contact the YACVic team if you have any questions about access, attendance or event logistics. 

  Name	Role	Email	Phone
  Rhiannon	Rural Development Coordinator	rjennings@yacvic.org.au	0474 506 000
  Taline	Events Officer	tferreira@yacvic.org.au	0401 237 911
  Zoe	Rural Development Coordinator	zdamman@yacvic.org.au
  Bec	Police and Projects Officer	bshaw@yacvic.org.au
  Dern	Head of YACVic Rural	dryan@yacvic.org.au	0408 674 738

   

   

• Is this an event for young people?

  This event is a professional development forum for individuals working within the youth and community services sector. It is intended to support practitioners, leaders and professionals to build their knowledge, skills and networks.

  Young people working, volunteering and in advisory and leadership roles are welcome to attend and can register for free if they're under 25!

  Please note, this is event is not targeted to young people, however it is open to sector workers of all ages looking to develop their professional practice and networks.

• I'm a parent or carer, can I bring the person I care for or who cares for me?

  Yes, we want this event to be accessible for everyone.

  Please contact us at rural.gsc@yacvic.org.au and let us know how we can best support you to attend.

  Children and infants are welcome free of charge, just let us know they're coming and register them for a 'non-participant' ticket. This way we will make sure there's food for them and we can meet their access needs.

  If you are accompanying someone to the conference, please reach out and let us know how we can support you.

• I can't drive, how will I get there?

  No worries! There are several public transport options to get to Warrnambool (please refer to the Access Key).

  Once you are in Warrnambool we can support you to get from the train station to Deakin Hydrogen Hub.

  Please email us at rural.gsc@yacvic.org.au and let us know:

  1. Where you are coming from

  2. If you require transport support

  3. Any access needs that we can consider

• Will there be food?

  Yes! Your ticket includes lunch and light snacks on both days. Please let us know of any dietary requirements in the ticket checkout section.