Build a Bench, Build a Legacy: Sustainable Workshop at Monash

🌱 Be part of something incredible! Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn to build sustainably, explore innovative materials, and leave your mark on Monash University's campus. This is your chance to create an eco-friendly bench that will stand as a symbol of sustainability and creativity for years to come.

What We’re Building

We're creating a bench from waste and natural materials, including:
♻️ Reclaimed construction pallets
🍾 Used glass bottles (crafted into stunning bottle bricks)
🌿 Cob, a natural material made from clay and sand

The bench will also feature a solar-powered internal light that illuminates the glass bottles at night, creating a magical glowing effect. This project is inspired by the principles of Earthships—a type of passive, sustainable architecture that utilizes recycled and natural materials.

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⚒️ Workshop Schedule

📍 Monash Clayton Campus
📆 Day 1–5 (February 9–13)

Day 1 & 2:

🔹 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Introduction to materials, building bottle bricks, sanding pallets.
🔹 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch break.
🔹 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Continue building bottle bricks and priming pallets.

Day 3:

🔹 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Creating cob, building bottle walls into the pallets.
🔹 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch break.
🔹 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Continue with cob and building bottle walls.

Day 4:

🔹 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Creating cob and rendering pallets.
🔹 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch break.
🔹 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Continue rendering and refining.

Day 5:

🔹 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Final rendering and top panel installation.
🔹 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch break.
🔹 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Final touches and preparations for the unveiling.

👕 Make sure to wear clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting a little messy—it’s all part of the adventure

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🌎 Earthships Masterclass – Take Your Learning to the Next Level!

We’re thrilled to offer an exclusive masterclass on Earthships with Dr. Martin Freney, Australia’s leading expert in Earthship architecture!

📆 Date: Wednesday, February 12
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Monash Caulfield Campus

💡 Why attend?

🏡 Learn how Earthships use natural and recycled materials to create self-sufficient buildings.

☀️ Understand sustainable design principles in real-world applications.

🎓 Bonus: Participants who attend both the masterclass and the workshop will receive a certificate of participation—a great addition to your sustainability credentials!

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🎉 Opening Ceremony with Vice-Chancellor

📆 Date: February 17 | 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Monash Clayton Campus

We’re honoured to have Professor Sharon Pickering, Vice-Chancellor of Monash University, officially inaugurate this unique creation!

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How to Join

This workshop is open to all! Whether you're a student, staff member, or sustainability enthusiast, this is your chance to make a difference.

✨ Register now to secure your spot—spaces are limited!

✅ Bonus: Attend both the masterclass and the workshop to earn a certificate of participation!

🌎 Create. Learn. Inspire. Leave a legacy.

We can’t wait to build with you!