University of Queensland tourism interns 'skill up' in regional destinations
Southeast Queensland’s regional tourism operators will benefit from an innovative programme initiated by the University of Queensland (UQ) in September this year.
"This initiative is a fantastic example of how collaborative efforts between the higher education sector, tourism operators and regional tourism authorities can in turn benefit the community" Queensland Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading , Hon Peter Lawlor.
Students will be required to apply their theoretical knowledge and research skills to the projects identified by each region, making recommendations to operators and tourism authorities that will culminate in a Knowledge Exchange Workshop.
Ms Rosanne Mollenhagen, a former UQ student who participated in the TRIP internship agreed that TRIP was instrumental in gaining experience and insight into how the tourism industry works at a regional level .Ms Mollenhagen is currently the Tourism Development Officer with the Winton Shire Council,
“There will be tangible outcomes from the project for the regions that will result in improved practice. This is an opportunity for operators to tap into the resources of a highly regarded research institution as well as identify future employees with appropriate skills and understanding of a regional tourism environment” Dr Noreen Breakey, TRIP Director, UQ School of Tourism.
Students participating in the Scenic Rim programme will develop packages that will form an important component of the 2010 Brand Scenic Rim Campaign. Cr John Brent, Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor welcomed this year’s student intake to the Scenic Rim ” It is a whole new era for tourism in the Scenic Rim and we are delighted to be working together with UQ and Scenic Rim tourism operators to bring about healthy outcomes, both for our local economy and, importantly, for the students.”
Mayor of Ipswich, Cr Paul Pisasale “TRIP will provide our future tourism workforce with a great opportunity to develop their skills through hands on experience. It's wonderful to see the TRIP program being embraced by our community of tourism operators and I look forward to welcoming the students to the City of Ipswich."
Media Enquiries Contact
Cate Clifford
Communications & Marketing
The University of Queensland
School of Tourism
c.clifford@uq.edu.au
Phone: +61 7 3365 2524
Mob: 0408 627 330