Copyright © Go-Platinum 2009

Westfalen Parklands is a 7 hectare site located at Collingwood Park. Westfalen consists of training facilities (horticulture, engineering, automotive, retail, grooming and deportment, hospitality and web design) set in 170 acres of land.

The facility was established to create education, training and employment opportunities. Oceanic Coal Australia Limited donated the land (formerly the location of both underground and open cut coal mines) to Challenge Employment and Training (known then as Ipswich YUPI Program Inc.) in July, 1995. Substantial revegetation work has been carried out on the Six Mile Creek which flows through the property and a small rainforest area has been developed. A walkway along the creek bank with several creek crossings has been established to link the suburbs of Riverview and Collingwood Park.

The Westfalen complex allows Challenge Employment and Training and its partners to create and use facilities, and to initiate activities which further their role in assisting the disadvantaged and unemployed people in the region. It also provides an outstanding example of economic and environmental regeneration developed through the strength of partnerships involving community, business and all levels of Government.

Westfalen Parklands seeks to reflect heritage values and to create cultural precincts and business opportunities which combine the best features of on- and off-the-job training with education, all while building confidence, self-esteem and a positive work ethic.

The site is also home to a wholesale nursery and a community garden.