Rockhampton's Heritage Post Office (pictured), one of six buildings owned and operated by the University in the Central Business District, will be the new headquarters for the recently announced Central Queensland Regional Health Partnership.

Central Queensland University has donated the use of building plus an additional $2.25 million to the project. With financial support of industry, local business, and individuals the $3-million refurbishment and renovation of the landmark structure is expected to operational by Spring 2003.

More than 20 staff, including members from the university's Faculty of Arts, Health & Sciences, the Faculty of Informatics & Communications, and the CQU Library will be based in the building. The new facility is expected to draw scores of professionals weekly into the CBD for skills updating and professional development.

With the other five downtown CQU buildings filled, local officials say the university already brings more than 800 CQU staff and students into the area who shop and frequent area restaurants.

"There isn't a better location for this Partnership. Downtown Rockhampton is the heart of regional services and this project which intends to make individuals healthier in the long-run, will also add to the economic and cultural health and vitality of the CBD," explained CQU Deputy Vice Chancellor (International and Corporate) Eric Laakso.

"It's appropriate that the Central Queensland Regional Health Partnership is located in Rockhampton, the centre of the Central Queensland and nerve-centre for health care and services. Professionals who travel in to Rocky will have access to first rate hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment within walking distance of their labs and classrooms," declared Margaret Goody, CEO, Rockhampton Regional Development LTD.