NWQROC response on future of Longreach Ag College

The North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC) recognises the significant economic and social impact the Longreach Pastoral College has had on its local community and beyond.

NWQROC calls on the Queensland Government to work with the Central West Queensland organisation of councils (RAPAD) in determining the future of the Longreach Pastoral College. 

NWQROC Executive Officer Greg Hoffman PSM said the eight mayors of the North West Queensland were most concerned when the Queensland Government announced the college would close at the end of 2019 as recommended in the Coaldrake Report. 

“We understand the disappointment that this announcement has delivered. Now is the time to have locals in the driver’s seat in the next stage of the college,” Mr Hoffman said.

“The councils of North West Queensland put their support behind RAPAD in taking a leading role in the future of the college. This position was also a recommendation put forward in the Coaldrake Report.” 

“RAPAD is best placed not only as the collective of seven local governments, but also as a well-established organisation that has vast expertise in its individual board members. 

“In regional and remote areas like ours, local governments play a vital role in communities. This is exemplified through the many positive initiatives delivered under RAPAD for the Central West, including building from the ground up a dedicated RTO that delivers targeted training to meet the region’s needs,” Mr Hoffman said. 

“With only 12 months remaining until the college closes, government must talk with the Longreach Regional Council and RAPAD to ensure the best outcome for the region’s communities and local economy.

“This is an optimum time to harness the existing expertise and skills of community leaders in council who know their region better than anyone.

“Looking to the future, combining relevant college programs with the experience and scope of training already available through RAPAD’s RTO would be a great asset to this part of the world. 

“We look forward to seeing a positive outcome and the next generation of skilled western Queenslanders training and working in their communities.”

Contact: Greg Hoffman PSM - Executive Officer, NWQROC | 0418 756 005 | nwqroc@carpentaria.qld.gov.au