New Vice-Chancellor Professor John Rickard spent two days in Mackay last week, meeting staff members and local community leaders.

Professor Rickard addressed Mackay staff during an afternoon tea, at which he talked about his experiences and future vision for CQU.

With more than four years' experience running a similar regional institution, Vice-Chancellor Rickard believes he is well equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead for a university with such a geographical spread of campuses.

“I see the major challenges in the short-term being the organisational review and the EBA, with a focus then on regional engagement, maintaining a broad curriculum and identifying and sustaining centres of excellence,” he said.

“I believe it is important to audit the research capabilities of each campus to identify areas of excellence, with a particular focus on emerging strengths related to each regional location.".

Professor Rickard is excited to be part of Central Queensland University and believes CQU to be a “strong, distinctive and vibrant university.".

“I would like us to work together and take on the challenge. It’s a new adventure and it is achievable!".

Photo 1: Professor John Rickard (left) with Mackay Head of Campus Phillip Clift.

Photo 2: Professor Rickard chats with Mackay staff at afternoon tea in the CQCM Foyer.