Regional impact on display at Bundaberg graduation
CQUniversity Bundaberg celebrated a milestone today, awarding degrees and qualifications to 280 graduates whose skills, passion and perseverance will continue to strengthen the Wide Bay–Burnett region and beyond.
From health and education to engineering, nursing, agriculture and the trades, today’s graduates represented the diverse industries that keep regional Queensland thriving.
The ceremony also saw 13 students honoured with CQUniversity’s Cultural Sash, recognising their cultural heritage and contribution to an inclusive community at CQU.
CQUniversity Associate Vice President, Gladstone and Wide Bay Regions Rod Ainsworth said the Bundaberg graduation was a proud reminder of the University’s commitment to regional impact.
“Today’s graduates are the future of this region. Many have chosen to study close to home, balancing families, work and community commitments, and they’ve come out stronger, more skilled and ready to make a difference,” Mr Ainsworth said.
“We’re especially proud that CQUniversity continues to lead in widening participation and supporting students who are the first in their families to attend university.
“Their achievements don’t just change their own future - they lift entire communities.”
The graduating class included:
- 27 Vocational Education and Training (VET) graduates who will step into essential industry and frontline roles
- 250 Higher Education (HE) graduates across disciplines including Nursing, Physiotherapy, Education, Psychology, Engineering, Digital Media and Business
- Three Research Higher Degree (RHD) graduates whose work is contributing new knowledge to regional and national priorities.
Bachelor of Nursing Graduate Katelyn Eggmolesse said today felt like the reward for years of determination.
“I’m excited to graduate, it’s rewarding to see all the hard work pay off,” she said.
“It’s also inspiring to be graduating alongside more than 80 other Nursing students here in Bundaberg. It really highlights the strength of our local health workforce and the commitment we all share to caring for our community."
Katelyn shared the benefits of studying at a local university and the future opportunities that are available.
“Studying in Bundaberg meant I could stay local and continue working while remaining close to my friends and family,” she said.
“Their support made a huge difference throughout my studies.
“I am really looking forward to beginning my career right here in my hometown. I’ve accepted a postgraduate position as a Registered Nurse at the local Bundaberg Hospital, and I cannot wait to continue to live and work in my own community.”
Today’s ceremony marked the second last CQUniversity graduation celebration for 2025.
Following Gladstone's upcoming graduation on Thursday, CQUniversity will have seen thousands of graduates commemorated throughout the year.
“Every graduate represents a story of effort, opportunity and the power of education,” Mr Ainsworth said.
“We couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved - and what they will go on to do.”
Explore your pathways to graduation in Bundaberg and beyond, at CQUniversity's Study website.
