Local university campus within reach of Hay

By Tertia Butcher

Hay could have its own university by as early as next year.

A pilot campus for Country University Centre in partnership with TAFE Connected Learning Centre has been proposed, and to be known as CUC Hay.

As reported by Hay Shire Council in October and in The Riverine Grazier on November 15, Hay had been identified as a good fit for CUC Southern Riverina which would also include the Councils of Berrigan, Edward River and Murray River.

However, at last week’s Council meeting, General Manager David Webb said staff had been working hard to best place a CUC campus in Hay.

“There has been a bit of movement in the last six weeks,” Mr Webb said.

“In discussions with the Federal Education Minister and TAFE NSW, it has become clear there is significant interest at the State and Federal level for Hay to be a pilot campus in partnership with a TAFE Connected Learning Centre.

“As such, Hay has determined it is best to submit its own grant application in conjunction with CUC Central and TAFE NSW and withdraws from the CUC Southern Riverina proposal.

“It is believed this will significantly improve our chance of success with the grant applicant.

“The centre would be known as CUC Hay.”

As part of the application process, CUC Central will establish a Hay-specific Board and Cr Carol Oataway will be nominated for a position as representative of Hay Shire Council.

Council at its meeting last week also authorised Mr Webb to work with CUC Central and TAFE NSW to submit a grant application for a Hay campus.

“Given it is planned to utilise the existing new TAFE building, the capital expenditure for the project should be minimal and will form part of the funding application in total,” Mr Webb said.

“The presence of a CUC in Hay will act as a magnet for young people, encouraging them to remain in the community while pursuing their educational goals.

“The retention of youth will contribute to the social fabric of Hay and CUC will also offer opportunities for lifelong learning and skill upgradation for adult learners.

“Advancement in the global economy and the emergence of a renewable energy economy in Hay will require significant transformation in the skills and knowledge of the local workforce.”