1980s
Whilst living in Toowoomba I found the facilities offered to non students were excellent. I remember going to 'uni' as a visitor and being able to sit in on lectures. I had not enrolled that year as I had a baby due during the exam period. Later that baby participated with early childhood teacher trainees. They increased their skills before graduation by studying families and how their pre schooler fitted in with the remainder of the families.
I eventually returned and studied part time as an external student. I obtained my degree in Business after nine years of part time study with another baby born during this time period. We had moved to Hervey Bay and saw the campus here grow from the first day. It started as rooms at the Senior College until it moved to its present site near the library. It has grown from one building to today's two buildings. David Bull was in charge of the first campus when it was at the Senior College. Helen McCann followed him to be replaced by Malcolm Cooper
I actually had one first year subject to complete when the campus opened. I enjoyed being able to return to the classroom. The support and encouragement to external students offered by the University was excellent. Study groups allowed us to make friends and encourage one another. The study centres and RLOs ensured that we could receive support. I remember telephone tutorials and going to study week in Toowoomba.