The official opening of the newest jewel in the crown of the Southern Downs attracted a room full of fans. It was wonderful,” said Alyce Lotz, CUC Southern Downs centre manager told The Town & Country Journal. Vic Pennisi, chair of the CUC Southern Downs, and former regional mayor, agreed. “The day went seamlessly. I think there was a level of surprise as to what we have done, and a level of anticipation for the future; there was a level of relief. I didn’t hear a negative word from anyone.” Enrolled students have voted their approval with their feet, with enrollments now reaching double digits.
Mr Pennisi emceed the event, which was attended by Queensland Senator Anthony Chisolm, MP James Lister, Steven Spina of TAFE Queensland, Chris Ronan, CEO of CUC, every SDRC councillor and Mayor Melissa Hamilton. Aunty Delphine Charles, a Githabul woman, gave a moving welcome to country to kick things off. Mr Pennisi gave an off-the-cuff speech regaling those present about the trials and rewards of putting his own three children through university at the same time, saying, “The cost is horrendous”.
Ms Lotz said guests were able to tour the entire facility and “check out what we’ve done” before enjoying a morning tea. “The students are going great,” she said, “They love the printing; they come in at random times.” Mayor Melissa Hamilton thanked the federal government and the Southern Downs CUC board for “the work they’ve put in over the last year to realise this project”. The only attribute the CUC is still lacking is the comfy couch they ordered which has yet to arrive.
Mr Pennisi said “it’s wonderful there’s bipartisan support for this program; it’s going to make a difference.” He outlined the deficit that is left behind in the community when young adults leave the region to go to university, often never to return. It leaves behind a not-quite-complete sporting team, a lack of a future doctor, future leaders. “The community suffers”.
Mayor Hamilton agrees, saying the CUC is an investment in “the long-term sustainability of our region”.
Mr Pennisi says his work is done, but it is not. The next phase is initiating a community advisory panel to provide input on important areas like what professions and trades the Southern Downs is in dire need of and how the CUC can contribute to identifying and retaining promising students. “We’re looking forward to hearing about the successes,” he concluded.
