Patron of the Staff Graduate Network, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (University Services) Alastair Dawson recently hosted lunches in Bundaberg (Nov 5) and Mackay (Nov 10) for staff graduates of the University.

During the lunches, Alastair provided a short presentation on his career journey and key points to great leadership and he discussed and answered questions about the future direction of the campuses.

Staff Graduate Network Patron Alastair Dawson with attendees in Mackay (top) and Bundaberg

Alastair provided great inspirational tips, saying "leadership is more than just being a director or manager and we all have responsibility to provide good leadership".

"It is our obligation as a leader to ensure we enjoy life much more and it is important to use our time well," he said.

Staff are passionate about their campus, so it was a great opportunity for them to discuss the future direction of their campus with senior management, as well as the direction of the University as a whole.

Attendees included lecturers and program coordinators and administrative staff from sections such as IT and Facilities Management.

Associate Lecturer Irena Lee said "it was lovely to get such a great insight into the future of CQUniversity". Stephen Oberg from Facilities in Mackay noted "it was very informative to hear the first-hand vision of CQUni and staff involvement".

"The network was formed to connect with staff graduates and to build awareness of the benefits and services provided to graduates/alumni internally, which will also assist with raising the profile of the University's commitment to alumni externally," said Graduate Relations Manager, Jo Nitz.

"Staff graduates will also be able to promote the benefits of staying connected with other graduates/alumni, who they may meet within the community or through the University."

The 2011 staff graduate lunches will be announced in the New Year. Contact Graduate Relations Manager Jo Nitz for further information (graduate-enquiries@cqu.edu.au).