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QUT launches pioneering Gigabit network link with Uecomm
BRISBANE, Australia - 29th May, 2002, Queensland Minister for Innovation and Information Economy, Paul Lucas launched Queensland University of Technology's (QUT) self-managed gigabit network link yesterday saying the link was a first for Queensland universities and a model for future initiatives.
Queensland University of Technology will provide students and staff with the same capability to access applications regardless of location using technology provided by Uecomm.
Minister Lucas said, "Self-managing this link has placed QUT in control of its own destiny while at the same time providing the potential for collaboration between the University and a wide range of research facilities, local industry partners and urban developments".
The link was launched at QUT's Kelvin Grove (KG) campus with the Minister, QUT's Vice-Chancellor, and Uecomm's CEO all emphasising the opportunities the new link presents.
QUT's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dennis Gibson said, "The new link connects our two city based campuses at more than ten times the speed of its predecessor and opens up the Kelvin Grove campus to a physical and virtual environment conducive to research, innovation and entrepreneurship".
The innovative move to self-manage the network link will ensure sustainable growth in network capacity as the need for high-end connectivity grows with the developing Creative Industries precinct.
Uecomm CEO, Peter McGrath, said, "It is very satisfying to work with a customer who has a strong vision. It is more satisfying when the customer's vision closely aligns with your own. We specialise in providing direct fibre and broadband data solutions and we have been delivering commercial Gigabit Ethernet services for two years. QUT has demonstrated its leadership in networking innovation and I congratulate them on being at the forefront".
Since 1999 Uecomm has rolled out 430 kilometres of optical fibre in Queensland and is Australia's second largest provider of metropolitan fibre.
IT leaders from across the private and public sector attended the launch and discussed the opportunities with QUT's IT leaders afterwards.
