Hong Kong academic Professor Martin Painter's visit to Rockhampton over the past week has spawned ideas for Hong Kong university students to gain real-life community and workplace experiences in Australia.

Professor Painter, from the City University of Hong Kong, came to Rockhampton to gauge its viability for students wanting to brush up their English at CQU Language Centre while immersing themselves with community organisations.

The visitor now intends to bring about 15-20 students to CQU's Language Centre over the period May 25 - June 20 for a pilot course.

Professor Painter (left) with Greg Mitchell from CQU Language Centre

He is also considering the beef city as a destination for 'summer internships' - during Australia's winter - through which Hong Kong students would gain project-based work experience with employers for between 4-6 weeks.

Community groups or businesses who would like to express an interest in being involved can contact Mr Mitchell via g.mitchell2@cqu.edu.au or 4930 6577.

Language Centre representative Greg Mitchell said he was keen to identify community groups and organisations which could benefit from assistance, while providing the Hong Kong visitors with useful adult-level learning experiences.

"They want to broaden their knowledge of the world and other cultures; increase their English language skills; and have the experience of interacting in a different cultural setting," he said.

Mr Mitchell hosted Professor Painter from February 7-12 to explore the potential for student group visits to Rockhampton.

Professor Painter (left) with Greg Mitchell from CQU Language Centre