Education
The region has an established, respected, innovative and growing education sector. It is a vibrant industry, with a range of different providers contributing to and supporting the expansion of other critical local industries.
The city has Queensland’s first comprehensive university with a combined secondary school, TAFE and university curriculum. This partnership is a key factor in driving a collaborative and highly innovative education sector focused on the future and working with key local industries.
The university’s School of Engineering and Technology provides engineering specialisations in civil, electrical, mechanical, mechatronics and mining and works closely with local mining companies to train and supply future engineers.
Central Queensland University is also home to Split Spaces Mackay, a not-for-profit co-working space which nurtures innovation and entrepreneurism through incubation and accelerator programs.
The core education and training capabilities in the area are driven by several key institutions:
- Central Queensland University (including a $46 million trade training centre and a $16 million engineering centre).
- A James Cook University Mackay Education and Research Centre located at the Mackay Base Hospital.
- Twelve private schools: some of which include Whitsunday Anglican School, St Patrick’s College, Holy Spirit College and Mackay Christian College.
- Numerous public secondary schools and a range of other primary school and education options.