Mount Isa’s Country University Centre broadens career opportunities
The Country Universities Centre (CUC) officially opened its doors in October 2024, and since then, it has supported 160 students, providing them with access to higher education right here in Mount Isa.
As a Foundation partner, Mount Isa Mines has played a key role in supporting the CUC, contributing technology and furnishings to create a dedicated learning space for local and visiting students.
The CUC is equipped with modern study spaces, breakout rooms, high-speed internet, computers, printing services and academic resources, all designed to support student success. Registered students can access the facility daily from 6am to midnight, seven days a week.
So far, 160 students have registered, benefiting from the facility and its support. These students are enrolled in studies with 26 different universities and higher education providers across Australia.
In March 2025, the CUC announced an exciting new partnership with the Department of Education, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), the Education Futures Institute and the Precinct to support the development of future teachers in the Mount Isa region. This initiative aims to nurture aspiring teachers, with a focus on helping them become top-tier educators in the north west Queensland district.
This partnership is part of the QUT EQuIPT program, which will help senior students, particularly those in years 10-12, as well as Teacher Aides and community members, pursue careers in education.
Sean Bower, Centre Manager CUC Mount Isa says he has been thrilled with the collaboration and the response to CUC Mount Isa since its opening.
“Students are enjoying the facilities, support and technology available in the Centre. We look forward to working with QUT’s EQuIPT Program in supporting local aspiring teachers to becoming the future of education in Mount Isa,” says Sean.
L-R, student Agnes Lagiono, Nick Donker - Manager Engineering, Mount Isa Mines, Chris Ronan - CEO CUC, Peta MacRae - Mayor of Mount Isa, student Keith Stalling, and Sean Bower - Centre Manager.
CUC Mount Isa.
Interactive screen for student and community events.
L-R, Kim Coghlan - Deputy Mayor, Mount Isa, Chris Ronan - CEO CUC, Nick Donker - Manager Engineering, Mount Isa Mines, Chad King - Mount Isa City Council, Peta MacRae - Mayor of Mount Isa, Chris Pocock - Education Queensland, Sean Bower - Centre Manager, John Tully - Councillor and Travis Crowther - Councillor, Mount Isa City Council.
Lounge area.
The Mount Isa Mines event space.
Maryann Wipaki, General Manager for Health, Safety, Environment and Community, says Mount Isa Mines was pleased to see the dedicated learning space established for local students, encouraging increased enrolment in tertiary education, higher completion rates and successful employment of graduates.
“Access to cutting-edge technology and high-quality educational facilities ensures that people living in north west Queensland have equal opportunities to pursue higher education,” she said.
The CUC is making a significant impact on education in Mount Isa, fostering a bright future for the region’s students.