Semester 2, 2025 Graduation Celebrates Local Mount Isa Students

CUC Mount Isa celebrated Semester 2, 2025 graduates who completed their certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s and master’s degrees while living in Mount Isa. Abbie Chandler opened her speech with:

“…we have all overcome so many hurdles to be here-whether it was the relentless late-night study or the tricky juggling act of work and life. If you’re anything like me, you probably celebrated even just finishing one paragraph of an assignment or finally catching up on recorded lectures like it was the biggest victory of your life. But I also want to acknowledge the other hurdles we overcame: the Mount Isa social calendar! Honestly, I’ve never been so social in my life. Between the races, the rodeos, and the camp drafts, it felt like we were recovering from a major event every single weekend.”

Centre’s student 001 Megan Crowther graduated from TAFE Queensland with the Diploma in Project Management which has significantly enhanced her capabilities and confidence in managing complex initiatives within government and opened up new opportunities in her career.

“Like many locals I always believed that higher education meant leaving town; leaving family, community and the place I love. But the CUC changed that, it gave me the opportunity to grow, to learn and to achieve something I once thought was out of reach.” shared Megan in her speech at the graduation.

Another student who congratulated the cohort in her speech is Abbie Chandler who has graduated with a Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education from Australian Catholic University.

“I was dealing with three major shifts simultaneously: a new town, a new career role, and finishing a demanding degree. Someone once told me that a person can handle one major change; having three felt overwhelming, and I realised: “That’s a big deal, Abbie.”

In those overwhelming moments, I held onto one simple mantra: “Trust the process.” And I try and focus on one step at a time. I am still working on it but that’s okay. Thankfully, the process led me right to the Country University Centre. This centre became my essential lifeline, aircon, Wi-Fi, and unlimited snacks. I was also guaranteed a spot to complete my work with full concentration. To the CUC team, I thank you for the space you have provided for me.

Being 21, moving away from home was not easy and you made my life easier. The real lesson I learnt this year wasn’t in any textbook or lecture; it was about Mount Isa itself. I came here looking for a career opportunity and unexpectedly found a home away from home.” Shared Abbie.

Each semester, and in between, we see many students working hard to achieve their goals. Since opening in 2024, CUC Mount Isa welcomed 275 students from various institutions who study locally, visit on placement or those who come back to family on holidays and need a place to catch up on study. If you study Certificate III or above or know someone who does, let them know there is a free study hub available to them in Mount Isa. Read Our Story to learn more.

“It is a privilege to be alongside students as they build in confidence and find new opportunities through education.  We are thrilled to celebrate the success of students in Mount Isa and to hear of next steps for those graduating, including new opportunities and further qualifications. ” Said Sean opening the graduation ceremony.

After the ceremony, students continued the celebration over dinner and drinks, solidifying the connections they’ve made at the centre and building new friendships locally. CUC Mount Isa is not just a regional study hub; it is a place to be seen and understood by people who are going through similar journey of growth and perseverance.

Visit CUC Mount Isa during staffed hours to learn more about us or express your interest to register online!

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JCU Prep coming to Mount Isa!

If you are considering to study but not sure where to start – JCU Prep is a free pathway program designed to help your confidence, refresh your study skills, and prepare you for future study. Join us at Country University Centre in Mount Isa for a JCU Prep information session and learn how this free program can help you take the next step toward university.

At the session you will:

• Hear from JCU experts about how JCU Prep works and how it can help you start your university journey.
• Discover flexible, supportive study options available both locally and online.
• Be inspired by a former JCU Prep student who built the skills and confidence to thrive at university.

Event details:

• Date: Tuesday 2 December 2025
• Time: 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
• Location: Country University Centre (CUC), Mount Isa. 16 Miles Street

Whether you’re returning to study, changing careers, or just exploring your options, this is the perfect place to start.

JCU Pathways staff will also be available throughout the session to answer any questions you may have. Parents, carers and families are welcome to join.

Light refreshments will be provided.