TAS TAFE FREER FARM

The TasTAFE Agricultural Centre of Excellence is a landmark education and commercial construction project in Burnie, Tasmania. It has been designed to support the future of agricultural education through innovative and flexible learning environments. Located on a working farm ‘Freer Farm’ in the rolling hills overlooking Burnie, the facility connects the city’s outer suburbs with the productive farming landscapes of North West Tasmania.

Designed with students and educators at its core, the Agricultural Centre of Excellence delivers adaptable teaching spaces that can evolve alongside advances in agricultural technology, modern farming practices, and educational methods. The building seamlessly integrates indoor learning with practical training while embracing the surrounding rural landscape through locally inspired architecture and public art.

The contemporary design reflects the innovation of Tasmania’s agricultural industry. A distinctive ‘cattle grid’ façade provides solar shading and privacy, while striking rammed earth walls echo the rich red soils of the North West farming region. Local artists Edge Atelier collaborated closely with the rammed earth contractor to create layered pigmented earth finishes and recessed wall details, forming a unique canvas for timber and Corten steel artwork that enriches the learning environment.

Sustainability was a key focus throughout the project. Passive solar design, abundant natural daylight, and high-performance rammed earth thermal mass walls work together to improve energy efficiency, regulate indoor temperatures, and create comfortable learning spaces year-round. These environmentally responsible design principles reduce operational energy consumption while supporting a healthy and productive educational environment.

The TasTAFE Agricultural Centre of Excellence demonstrates PhilpLighton’s expertise in delivering award-quality commercial construction, education facilities, and sustainable building projects across Tasmania, combining innovative design and long-term value for clients and communities.