CQUniversity's Mackay Student Residential Accommodation has only recently been expanded but the growing band of residents are already developing their engagement with the local community.

They held a community fundraiser at Mackay Canelands shopping centre recently which raised more than $200.

Students including Morgan Garrity (foreground) liven up shopping to raise funds for a recreation area

Contributed by Sarah Kale, Residential Life Team: Senior Residential Coordinator

Enthusiastic residents dressed up in costume and entertained children (and cheery adults) with balloon animals, face-painting and comedy in an effort to raise money for a recreation area at the accommodation.

Canelands was also pleased with the positive response to the students' efforts and has offered to make a space available again this weekend.

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This is not the only thing happening at Mackay Student Residential Accommodation. Residents recently turned off all the lights and electronics and had a Games Night by Torch-light in the common area for Earth Hour.

The students are also getting excited about their Dessert Night every Tuesday at 6:30pm in the common area, where dessert is provided for a gold coin donation. Anyone is welcome to come.

Hannah Connell (left) was among students raising funds for a recreation area

The RSPCA is holding its annual PAWS Walk on May 15 and has asked the Mackay Student Residential Accommodation to be involved. The students are going to make signage for the PAWS Walk and will also offer face-painting and dog-painting for the walk itself!

The Student Association and Mackay Student Residential Accommodation have also started communication with the not-for-profit organization Twentyone, which organizes alcohol-free events and activities for youth.

We hope to advertise and promote their events to our residents because what they are doing is great. It's easy to get sucked in to the whole ‘drinking culture' after turning 18 but they provide a safe, fun environment for young people to socialize without the need for alcohol.

There are a lot of exciting things happening at Mackay Student Residential Accommodation; all the students are really getting involved in university life and getting the most out of this academic community.

Students prepare to entertain shoppers. L-R Casey Davis, Myles Hornstra and Paul Killingly