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General News

1 July, 2025

Mount Isa's inaugural graduates celebrates

Country Universities Centre Mount Isa held a special event to celebrate its graduates.

By North West Weekly

Mount Isa's inaugural graduates celebrates - feature photo

Thirty local students proudly marked the completion of their studies last week at Country Universities Centre Mount Isa’s inaugural graduation ceremony.

The event celebrated the diverse achievements of students, who earned qualifications such as Certificates, Diplomas, a Bachelor and a Doctorate, all while being able to remain in Mount Isa.

“It was incredibly pleasing to see such a great turnout,” said CUC Mount Isa manager Sean Bower.

“We witness first-hand the effort students put in to complete their studies. It is fantastic to join the students in celebrating their success, to see their growing confidence in engaging with higher education and to discuss what is next.

“Some students have enrolled for further studies or are considering what is next, while some have ensured employment security and gained promotions by gaining required qualifications.”

Richie O’Sullivan, who recently received a Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention, said having the CUC in Mount Isa was a big help.

“It is very important to have CUC in local towns as it helps people with learning new skills and gaining a good education which normally wouldn’t be easy in a rural town.

“I am originally from the Republic of Ireland and moved to Australia in 2004.

“My background is in hospitality for the last 15 years.

“Upon moving back to Mount Isa, I decided to start a career in youth residential work, which I am really enjoying.

“Currently with staff shortages, we are very busy at work so it has been difficult to fit my studies in whilst working. It has been challenging at times but I pushed it through and got it done.

“I have learned a lot about the industry through the training received with Skills Generation, supported by CUC Mount Isa; I can’t thank them enough for their professionalism.”

Chris Pocock, the deputy chair of the CUC board, said he was proud to see the success first-hand since the facility was opened.

“It is so important to Mount Isa as it gives people the opportunity to complete their studies without having to move,” he said.

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