Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay in conjunction with the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), will welcome Dana Peters, Head of the Creatures Department from Oscar-winning visual effects and animation studio, Weta Digital.

The visit will be on Friday August 31, when Dana will deliver a free public presentation at the Conservatorium Theatre.

The presentation will focus on Weta's work on films such as King Kong, X-Men: The Last Stand and 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer.

Bringing world-class talent from cutting-edge visual effects studios to Mackay is all part of Dr Steve Pace's commitment to exposing his students to industry experts, and being in a regional campus has been no barrier.

Earlier this year, the Creative Director of Animal Logic, Bruce Carter, gave a presentation at CQU Mackay about the making of the Oscar-winning film Happy Feet.

"We're bringing these industry experts to the campus primarily for the benefit of students in our Bachelor of Digital Innovation degree, but also to raise local awareness of careers in the digital media industries such as animation, web design and game design," said Dr Pace.

Prior to Dana's presentation, some short films and animations from CQU's Digital Innovation students will be on display in the Conservatorium foyer.

If you would like to find out more about CQU's Bachelor of Digital Innovation program or how you can get into a career in the digital media industries, this is the perfect time to do so.

Dr Pace plans to send out invitations to each of the schools in the area interested in learning how Weta Digital blockbusters were created.  Those interested in attending should phone 4940 7800. The flyer for the evening can be viewed at:  http://mackay.cqu.edu.au/weta-digital.pdf

The RADF is a partnership program between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Local Government to support arts and cultural development in the community.

Dr Steve Pace of CQU Mackay is looking forward to welcoming Dana Peters to CQU Mackay in August