Written by Kate Armstrong
The history of the Orange campus
Firstly, a brief history on the background of the Orange campus. Back in 1973, the Orange campus was established, home to the Orange Agricultural College.
The courses offered then were principally related to the management of agricultural business.
Then from 1990 to 1994, the Orange Agricultural College was linked with the University of New England (UNE), before becoming a part of the University of Sydney for 10 years.
The Orange Campus was officially transferred to Charles Sturt University on the 1st of January 2005.
So there you have the very short history of the Orange Campus, which gives context to some of the most iconic spots we have on the campus today!
Iconic spots of the Orange Campus
Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic spots on the Orange campus is the water tower, situated at the top of the hill in the centre of the campus.
In particular, the FalconCam Project is very well known amongst the staff and students at Orange.
The story goes, that sometime in 2007 staff noticed that a pair of peregrine falcons were interested in using the campus as a hunting ground.
This was especially extraordinary as peregrine falcons are relatively rare around the Central West of NSW.
A staff member, Ian Grange, suggested that a roosting box be mounted on the University’s water tower to encourage the raptors to hang around.
The falcons took to the box very quickly and ever since has been famous part of the Orange Campus. The FalconCam project was established to study, monitor and record the breeding and natural behaviour and to provide a glimpse into the life of the species.
For more information on the FalconCam project, click here
Another one of the favourite spots on campus is the Thornbill Biodiversity Walk on campus.
This walk was only officially launched in the first week of university this year and showcases the beautiful scenery that surrounds all the Orange campus.
The real epitome of a rural university as you pass the neighbouring paddocks.
Last but certainly not least, a top iconic spot on the Orange campus is the Banjos café.
Indisputably the buzzing hub of the campus, Banjos is always a good spot to warm up in the cool Orange winters.
With a variety of very busy health course, everyone appreciates their lunch breaks and makes the most of the top tier food at Banjos.
Hopefully this short list of some of the key spots on the Orange campus have given an insight into the life of the Orange campus!
This is a SSAF funded initiative.
