Torres and Cape Hospital and Health conducts hands-on sessions to encourage students to consider careers as a nurse or doctor. Photo: Alethea Turner Photography.
A vibrant day of exploration and inspiration at Cooktown Events Centre has helped spark curiosity and expand students’ understanding of diverse study and career pathways.
The CUC Cape York Future Students Fair brought together 149 students from years 6 to 12 across five schools – Bloomfield River State School, Holy Spirit College, Hope Vale Campus, Cooktown State School and Endeavour Christian College – for 18 interactive activities on 24 October.
The students were fully engaged in topics from natural and cultural resource management, biosecurity and performing arts to entrepreneurship, medicine, community services, and immersive VR career experiences – some so captivated they barely noticed the call for free pizza!
The fair plays a vital role in connecting young people with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings. And judging by feedback gathered on the day, many left inspired and eager to learn more about their options.
Country Universities Centre (CUC) Cape York, part of the national Eastern Australian Regional University Centre Partnership Program (EARUCP), worked alongside local educators, facilitators and community members to deliver the event.
The Cooktown fair provided a shining example of this collaboration – bringing together community strengths, local knowledge, and higher education pathways to support regional and remote students.
CUC Cape York hopes to make the fair an annual event, building on the success of this year’s program to further strengthen connections between education, community, and opportunity across the Cape.
“I’d like to thank everyone who made this day a success,” CUC manager Jenni James said. “From the students and teachers to the exhibitors and volunteers and especially our university partners CQU, JCU and UQ.
“It’s great to hear such positive feedback about an event that your team has put so much effort into.”
CUC Cape York will next co-host two events this week with Central Queensland University:
- Wednesday 5 November at 5 pm: Career Ready Cooktown focusing on empowering Cooktown’s future workforce by showcasing education and employment pathways for students, their parents and caregivers.
- Thursday 6 November at 9am: Open to the general public and current CQU students to learn about pathways to university and the CQU assistance provided to remote students.
“Whether you’re a student exploring your future, a parent supporting career choices, or a business leader looking to engage with emerging talent or upskill your current staff, this event offers valuable connections and practical direction,” Ms James said.
Light refreshments will be provided at both events.
