Mitchell Eco Centre

The Gold Coast could be dubbed the ‘Green Coast' as eco-conscious entrepreneur Bruce Mitchell showcases his world first Enviro Industrial Estate to a host of international delegates.

The fully environmentally sustainable estate is located in Staplyton, the heart of Gold Coast City Council's Yatala Enterprise Area and the only one of its kind in the world. Division 1 Councillor Donna Gates said all Gold Coasters should be proud to host the first
carbon neutral industrial estate, which has had the full support of Council throughout its development over the past three years.

"In today's environmentally conscious society, to have an industrial development achieve full carbon neutral status is a wonderful achievement and sets a terrific example for businesses aspiring to implement more sustainable practices," said Cr Gates.

In an Australian first, the Mitchell Enviro Industrial Estate has also received a six leaf certification from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA). Its facilities and technologies will be on show to representatives from IFHP (International Federation for Housing and Planning) and EAROPH (Eastern Organisation for Planning and Housing).

Mr Mitchell said they were already at full capacity with nine "green tenants" already located on the estate, which is not connected to Council mains or sewerage facilities.

"I am delighted to bring this concept to fruition and am appreciative of the Gold Coast City Council for their support in enabling our successful certification.

"Interest in the estate has been high, we're already at full capacity with a waiting list of businesses wanting to relocate here. We have attracted businesses that share our passion and commitment to preserving and improving our current environment," said Mr Mitchell.

One company to recently commit to the site is Hidro+, who has developed a patented technology for a new, renewable energy source. HidroLinear has zero-fuel, zeroemissions, has the smallest ecological footprint and the lowest cost of energy production.

"Hidro definitely fit the bill. It will be a great advantage to have them on site and we're grateful to Council for facilitating this introduction," said Mr Mitchell. Councillor Gates said the new estate, in conjunction with Council's Investment Attraction Program, presented great opportunities for national or international businesses looking to relocate or expand to the Gold Coast.

"The Investment Attraction Program was endorsed by Council last year and provides assistance and financial incentives to eligible companies looking to expand or move to the city, which will also provide a vital boost to the city's economic stability in the long term.

"The Yatala Enterprise Area has been identified as a key growth area for the Gold Coast," said Cr Gates.

"It's a great package for businesses looking at the area - the Mitchell Enviro Industrial Estate provides an environmentally conscious solution, while Council can provide the support and assistance to facilitate it."

Mr Mitchell said the estate will also feature an information marketing and educational hub.

"The Mitchell Eco Centre is designed to promote sustainability, the environment and climate change solutions for individuals and businesses," said Mr Mitchell.