Six of Australia's regional universities have announced the formation of a collaborative university network to boost the profile of regional tertiary education.

The foundation members of the network are CQUniversity, Southern Cross University, University of Ballarat, University of New England, University of Southern Queensland and University of the Sunshine Coast.

Around 40 performers are preparing music, choreography, costumes and lighting for Mackay's latest Big Night In performances, on Friday and Saturday (Oct 21-22).

Bands will showcase styles ranging from big band jazz, to soul, funk, latin and Motown to ensure everyone enjoys the program.

A 29-year-old Rockhampton student, Brendan Motley was among 70 students looking to kickstart a new career who recently completed their Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program at CQUniversity.

Having been away from a classroom for some years, Mr Motley decided to freshen up his academic skills through the STEPS program before enrolling in the University's new paramedic science program.

CQUniversity Theatre students have embarked on their annual pre-Schoolies tour, staging the Choices drama production to convince teenagers to avoid risky behaviour..

CQUniversity Noosa Education senior lecturer Dr Sue Davis has been nominated as Chair of the Noosa Biosphere Ltd governance board, succeeding inaugural Chair Michael Donovan.

At the recent Noosa Biosphere governance board meeting, directors unanimously agreed that Dr Davis was an outstanding candidate with extensive experience in conservation, sustainable development and education.

Around 50 prospective students turned out to seek details, now that CQUniversity Bundaberg is able to deliver its own on-campus Bachelor of Psychology program.

Health and Human Services Dean Professor Andy Bridges said this new offering would enable "home-grown professionals" to service the needs of the Wide Bay region.

CQUniversity Emerald Learning Centre celebrated the 2011 STEPS (Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies) Completion Ceremony recently.

During the evening, students were presented with their Completion Certificates by visiting Academic Learning Services Director of Studies Karen Seary.

Congratulations to CQUniversity Mackay team members Allysia Duncan, Dorne Wallace, Frank Armstrong, Kim Mackenzie, Maude Chapman, Robyn Smith and Ysanne Chapman who collectively raised hundreds of dollars as part of the Walk for a Cure Diabetes Day recently..