Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) has agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) to increase co-operation and communication with the Queensland College of Wine Tourism at Stanthorpe.
Decided at a recent General Council Meeting, the Mayor and Councillors agreed the MOU would be an excellent foundation for developing strategies to attract new business and industry to the Southern Downs region.
Councillor Blundell said having the USQ’s College of Wine Tourism within the Southern Downs region had already generated local jobs, tourism and business opportunities.
“We see the MOU as enhancing the work that is already being done.
“The MOU document sets out a number of aims and these include:
- development of strategies to attract and pursue third party funding, including cooperation and development of joint infrastructure
- development of mutually beneficial internship and employment opportunities for USQ students and graduates with SDRC in areas in which USQ delivers programs
- development of community education and business training programs to meet the needs of local government staff and the Southern Downs and surrounding community
- effective coordination and communication to support USQ’s capital works and land management programs
- cooperation in joint applications for research funding in areas of need for the Southern Downs and surrounding community
- development of student scholarships and research grants in areas of relevance to USQ that support the needs and aspirations of the rural communities
- cooperation in the production of community, cultural, health, environment and related initiatives to improve the lifestyle opportunities for the Southern Downs and surrounding regions and
- cooperation in the promotion of USQ and SDRC events, including in the area of media.
“With the formalising of our relationship the Council and the College will be able to lobby for funding and grants and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.”
