Over 510 prospective tertiary education students have been offered a place to study at Central Queensland University Mackay in 2004.

Ahead of commencing the new academic year, first-year students will undertake Orientation Week activities at the campus from March 2-5.

Student Services support officer Jocelyn Wood said this year’s ‘Gone Troppo’ theme will be incorporated into various activities.

“Orientation Week allows students from throughout the region and Australia, to become familiar with their new surroundings as they learn new skills to make the transition into university life a lot easier,” she said.

“Activities throughout the week include sessions relating to assignment writing, study skills and plagiarism, an introduction to CQU technologies, stress management, faculty lunches, music student performances and a tropical cruise along the Pioneer River.

“Student mentors will also be assigned to the new students as often advice from existing students encourages newcomers to enter their programs of study smoothly.".

Local dignitaries and guest speaker Robyn Taylor will welcome students at sessions in the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music theatre at 9am and 10am on March 2. The remaining CQU students return for the autumn term of study on March 8.