We, the councils of Edward River and Berrigan Shire, are pleased to express our full support and endorsement for the application to establish a Country Universities Centre (CUC) in both Deniliquin and Finley.
This initiative is currently under adjudication, and we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the CUC Southern Riverina Steering Committee for developing such a strong, comprehensive proposal that clearly demonstrates the tremendous potential this project holds for our region.
The overwhelming community backing for the proposal speaks to the real need for such a centre in our local towns.
Both of our councils are united in our commitment to turning this vision into a reality.
The establishment of CUC hubs in Deniliquin and Finley is critical in reversing population decline, retaining skilled workers, and injecting much-needed vitality into our local communities.
These hubs will provide unprecedented access to tertiary education opportunities for our young people, helping them stay in our towns and build their futures here, while also offering local residents the chance to upskill or change careers in an increasingly competitive job market.
The benefits of a CUC are clear and far-reaching.
It will not only provide higher education opportunities for our youth but will also offer professional development for local workers, enhancing the skill base of our region.
Additionally, CUC hubs will make our towns more attractive to skilled professionals, encouraging them to relocate here and contribute to the economic growth of the Southern Riverina.
The possibilities for our communities are endless.
The CUC project has already received a strong show of community support, with local businesses and individuals pledging almost $500,000 in financial and in-kind contributions.
This level of backing demonstrates the genuine enthusiasm and belief in the potential of this project to drive economic and social benefits for the Southern Riverina.
In addition, we are pleased to highlight the support of local MPs Susan Ley and Helen Dalton, both of whom have indicated the establishment of CUC hubs in Berrigan Shire and Edward River is a priority for their respective constituencies.
Their commitment to this project further underscores the importance of this initiative to our region and its future.
We would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of key advocates who have been instrumental in advancing this project to where it stands today.
We extend our sincere thanks to Murray Irrigation Limited, Gabbie Cusack, the late Bruce Simpson, and Leanne Small for their dedication and leadership throughout this process.
Together, we can ensure the Country Universities Centre becomes a reality in our region, revitalising our towns and creating opportunity for generations to come.
We are proud to support this proposal and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our communities.
Yours etc.
Berrigan Shire Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean
Edward River Mayor Ashley Hall
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