The live work studio, RossDesign, was established in 1999 as an adjunct to the Bachelor of Communication Design with the aim of introducing third and fourth year students to a commercial and professional design environment.

Situated within Townsville’s James Cook University, the live work studio operated for four years, undertaking projects from both the University and the wider business community. Clients included the Department of Primary Industry, Department of Main Roads, Queensland Health, Townsville City Council, Thuringowa City Council, Townsville General Hospital, and Holmes College. All students who experienced the working environment gained a better understanding of the processes involved in working for and running a successful design based enterprise, and for many alumni, this experience culminated into successful professional and academic careers.

RossDesign was consistently awarded Best Student Work in the 1999, 2000, and 2001 Queensland Multimedia Awards.