Burdekin Shire Council is supporting the establishment of a Country Universities Centre (CUC) in the Burdekin through its involvement in the newly formed CUC Burdekin Management Committee.
The CUC model provides regional students with access to high-quality learning facilities, technology, and academic support while studying tertiary or vocational education remotely.
With more than a dozen centres already operating across Australia, the CUC network is helping bridge the gap between metropolitan and regional education opportunities.
The CUC Burdekin Management Committee was established in March 2025 and is comprised of representatives from business, education, community and Council.
Burdekin Shire Council is providing in-kind support to the Committee in its early stages, including secretarial support from Council’s Economic Development team, to help progress planning and assist with a funding application. Should the application to state and federal government programs be successful, the centre would transition to an independent board of directors with appointed staff.
Councillor Oar has been nominated as Council’s representative on the Committee, which has met twice to date to progress plans. At its recent meeting, the Committee appointed Kaylee Boccalatte as Chair and Lorraine Wolfe as Deputy Chair.
The Committee is now calling for expressions of interest from the community to fill two additional positions, one representative from the legal sector and one youth representative.
The Management Committee is also seeking community feedback to better understand the level of interest and support for a Country Universities Centre in the Burdekin. A survey is now open for the entire Burdekin community, including high school students considering further study, current or potential tertiary and vocational students, mature-aged students, parents, teachers, educators, and employers.
Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said Council’s in-kind support reflects the importance of facilitating more opportunities for local students to pursue further education without leaving the district.
“Education is the foundation for a stronger future for the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.
“Council is proud to provide initial support that helps lay the groundwork for a potential Country Universities Centre here in our shire. By working together with community and education partners, we are helping create opportunities for our young people and residents of all ages.”
The community is encouraged to complete the survey to ensure their voice is heard in shaping the future of education in the Burdekin.
To complete the survey, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/P3PCY62. If you would like to express your interest in joining the CUC Burdekin Management Committee as a youth or legal sector representative, please contact Council’s Economic Development Team on economic@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
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