A collaboration between Bundaberg Regional Council and Queensland University of Technology will continue into the future after an MOU was signed last week.
The Memorandum of Understanding will ensure a positive relationship between Council and the QUT through the collaboration of projects surrounding agriculture, science and more which are beneficial to the region.
The MOU has come to fruition after Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey wrote to Vice Chancellor of QUT Professor Margaret Sheil in 2020, seeking to establish greater links between the university and Council.
“QUT features a number of research strengths in bioeconomy, agriculture, data science and STEM that aligns strongly with the future of Bundaberg Region,” he said.
“These include Council support for beneficial industry research grant programs, contribution to the work behind the Bundaberg Challenger Learning Centre and their involvement in the 2020 Bundaberg Bioeconomy conference.”
Mayor Dempsey said the MOU would guide future collaboration between QUT and the region, exploring new projects, research opportunities and more.
“These future linkages include the exciting development of agricultural technology through a potential involvement at the Bundaberg Agtech hub,” he said.
“There will also be an opportunity for collaboration for expanded bio-economy and renewable energy research projects in partnership with local industry and Council.
“We also want to strengthen STEM education and youth resilience to create better prospects and opportunities for our young people.”
QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil said the university was looking forward to sharing its expertise in biotechnology, clean energy, and emerging industries and collaborate with the regional council.
“QUT and the Bundaberg Regional Council will work together to identify projects of mutual interest that complement the university’s teaching and research strengths in AgTech, the bio-economy and space science,” Professor Sheil said.
Queensland University of Technology is one of Australia’s premier universities.
In 2021, QUT accepted more first preference choices for tertiary entrance than any other Queensland university.
