Deakin University has announced a major refurbishment and rename of its management centre at Waurn Ponds.

The refurbished facility, that includes hotel accommodation, has been renamed Waurn Ponds Estate (WPE) in preparation for its official launch in October this year.

WPE will be an intimate 60 room urbane lodge that combines stylish design, contemporary facilities and a tailored guest experience. It will also feature technology-rich conference spaces, private meetings rooms and various indoor and outdoor event spaces.

Waurn Ponds Estate will also offer something for art lovers, with up to 100 artworks from Deakin’s extensive collection on show at any given time.

General manager of hospitality, Gregg Currie, said Waurn Ponds Estate said Deakin was committed to supporting local businesses, especially local vineyards and food producers.

“At Waurn Ponds Estate, our produce is grown locally and appears on our menu only if in season. Wines on offer will be local, stunning and varying daily to promote new releases. There will certainly be no generic house brands on offer,” he said.