Hub to boost region’s study options

Years of talks to establish tertiary education in the Capes have borne fruit, following the opening of a Central Queensland University study hub in Busselton.

The Capes Region Higher Education Task Force, chaired by Forrest MHR Nola Marino was established by the City of Busselton and Shire of Margaret River to promote higher education in the Capes Region.

The new study hub, located in the Community Resource Centre, will offer students access to computers, free wi-fi and places to study and, as student numbers grow in specific courses, tutors.

Central Queensland University Busselton study hub co-ordinator Angela Bancilhon said through its presence in Busselton, the university was committed to increasing Capes region participation rates in higher education.

Ms Bancilhon said the study hub could be used as a resource for first-year university students to undertake supported, distance education at home.

Busselton Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Ray McMillan said the establishment of the study hub added to the mix of education opportunities in the region.

“The population of this region is developing at a rapid rate and the capability of offering tertiary education is essential as the region matures,” he said.

“We have come a long way from the existence of one high school some 25 years ago to now having five secondary education institutions and nine supporting primary schools.

“We do not have the critical population mass to support a traditional tertiary education model but what CQU offers is the opportunity to be connected online to a wide array of post-secondary and higher education programs.”

Mr McMillan said while the focus is always on the transition of Year 12 students to higher education, the vast majority of tertiary education students are mature age and the presence of the study centre will provide more accessible opportunities for those who were not able to engage in higher studies previously.

Georgiana Molloy Anglican School principal Ted Kosicki said enhancing tertiary education in the region allowed for an expanded skills base and would be an added resource for industry to utilise.

“The university through its networks and providers may act as an incentive for further educational investment in the Capes region, a multiplier effect,” he said.

Mr Kosicki said this type of education provider delivers a local platform and pathway for those who wish to commit to further education without leaving the region and could also lead to niche areas of study being undertaken here such as marine systems, biodiversity and agriculture.

He said any new local industry including a university would benefit by the retention of youth in the region because they would have a choice in course delivery location.

“The university would provide a local option which at present is not available for people studying at this level,” he said.

“At present, the majority of our tertiary-bound students exit the region and commence studies in Perth.”

“This university hub gives tertiary bound students the incentive to remain at home whilst completing studies, it may also provide students from outside the region with course choice availability in Busselton.”