Queensland College of Wine Tourism officially open

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) was proud to be part of the opening of the Queensland College of Wine Tourism at a ceremony today (Friday 20 April 2007).

The college was officially opened by Queensland Premier, the Honourable Peter Beattie at the training facility in Stanthorpe.

USQ is one of six partner institutions involved in the initiative, providing tertiary wine study options for students through the Bachelor of Wine Science and the new Bachelor of Business majoring in Wine Tourism.

Premier Beattie said the facility was a pivotal step in the future of the wine industry.

'This will attract students not just from Queensland and Australia but around the world,' he said.

'The backbone of any industry is its training facilities. Young people will have a great foundation here.'

The facilities also mean students won't need to leave the region to study, Premier Beattie said.

'The only way to stop kids leaving the region is to have education here and jobs here. This does both.'

USQ Vice Chancellor Professor Bill Lovegrove said the university's involvement echoed the institution's original vision of community involvement and retaining young people in the region.

'The founders of USQ would be delighted we're here today. They wanted an education facility for young people so they could stay in the region,' Professor Lovegrove said.

'Students in Queensland can now enter this industry at certificate, diploma or degree level without leaving their community. I look forward to a really exciting future through the college.

Second year Wine Science student, Julie Orton has been using the College facilities to complete practical work.

Originally from Toowoomba, Julie's wanted to stay in the area and her interest in science led to her choosing the course.

'Having it here means I don't have to travel to Wagga Wagga!' Miss Orton said.

'I want to stay in Queensland. We've got state of the art facilities right here. Once I finish my degree I can come and do a TAFE course in cellar door and stay in this area.'

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2559