A strong advocate for Caboolture and its future possibilities has been appointed as Head of the USC Caboolture campus.

Dr Wayne Graham, who has been an academic within USC’s School of Business for 14 years, started in his new role last week and said he was immediately attracted to the position.

“Caboolture has a demographic that screams opportunity and has a vibrant and dynamic community that is eager to work with USC,” he said.

“I’m excited to be able to further foster the University’s relationships with key stakeholders within and for the community.”

Dr Graham, who is leading a local research project into the impact of the Health Hub Morayfield, said the local campus was working hard to support the immediate needs of the region.

“Health is obviously a big priority and that’s reflected in our enrolments with seventy percent of students at Caboolture studying degrees in nursing,” he said.

“We’re also working closely with TAFE and have high numbers of enrolled nurses making the transition to becoming registered nurses with support from USC.

“But it’s not just health where we can grow our program offerings. There is strong demand and growth around Early Childhood, Creative Industries and Business.

“There are plenty of opportunities here, including increasing the level of research activity at the campus and that will come as relationships are developed further.”

As coordinator for USC’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, Dr Graham said he’s also focused on attracting, retaining and satisfying students, and maintaining and developing a strong positive culture for staff.

USC Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) Professor Joanne Scott said she is delighted that Dr Graham has accepted this appointment.

“I’ve no doubt that his knowledge in business and regional development, leadership and strategic management will be strongly utilised, not just by USC but the broader Caboolture community as well,” Professor Scott said.

- Megan Woodward