Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP’s annual school captains’ luncheon has opened proactive discussions around shaping the Burdekin’s future.

The luncheon, aimed at providing the chance for school captains to connect with their local State Member and have their say about the strengths and opportunities they see in their local community.

“These round-table events are invaluable in giving our next generation of leaders the chance to identify positive contributions they can make to their school and their community and receive the support to put those ideas into action,” Mr Last said.

“This year there was plenty of discussion around ideas to bring university opportunities to Burdekin students which is particularly prudent at the moment when these students are making big decisions around their future.”

“We know that the majority of the time those looking to undertake a university degree are faced with the decision to leave the Burdekin, however there also needs to be a working relationship between universities and our regional towns that enables students to make informed choices about their future studies. It is why I have worked closely with the Minister for Education as we look to grow this pathway, particularly in the Burdekin.”

Mr Last said the Burdekin should be proud of its student leaders who were not only looking at ways to support current Year 12’s but also those to follow in the coming years.

“I ask these students each year about what legacy they want to leave in their final year of schooling, not just in their school environment but in their wider community and each year their suggestions leave me feeling proud as their state member.

“By securing other universities to come to the Burdekin and share what they have to offer our school leavers, our students are offered better access to more information about study options available to them.”