CQU Emerald shines at 10-year anniversary

12 December 2024
Woman cutting a cake standing next to a man in a suit
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp with Councillor Gai Sypher

By Tiahna Fiddling

CQUniversity’s Emerald campus celebrated a decade of vocational training and academic excellence, innovation, and community impact for the 10th anniversary of the University’s merger with CQ Tafe. 

In 2014, CQUniversity and CQ TAFE officially merged, combining resources, faculty expertise, and diverse academic programs to create a more dynamic, comprehensive institution. 

A luncheon welcomed external stakeholders including representatives from local high schools, the resource, agriculture and health sectors, along with development corporation, local and federal government members and officers. 

Former CQU employees, Central Highlands Mayor Janice Moriarty and Councillor Gai Sypher attended the event where guests reflected on the transformative journey of the merger, highlighted key achievements and future collaborations.

The event also honoured faculty and staff who have played pivotal roles in the integration process and the ongoing success of the University.

Emerald - Mayor.jpg

Associate Vice-President for Central Highlands Region Kim Harrington said the event was an opportunity to reflect on the past 10 years and all that has been achieved by the campus.

“The merger has enabled the university to expand its educational offerings and vocational training capabilities, strengthening its commitment to serving students from Certificate I to PhD,” Ms Harrington said. 

“CQUniversity stands as a leader in training and education in the Central Highlands and continues to foster an inclusive, forward-thinking environment.

“The anniversary event featured a series of discussions amongst attendees, a retrospective on the merger's impact on the university's growth and discussing key milestones from the past 10 years."