CQU to lose a great leader

THE shock resignation of Professor Scott Bowman as head of CQUniversity will leave the tertiary institution all the poorer.

The vice-chancellor was the driving force behind the university’s campus in the CBD of Cairns – the first, which was quickly followed by arch rival James Cook University.

He is one of the most innovative and down-to-earth university academics in Australia and the antithesis of what most expect a university head to be.

He is a great believer in the community and that is why CQU are the naming right sponsors of the Taipans basketball team.

Prof Bowman has always been one to think outside the box.

The whole idea of establishing their campus in the centre of Cairns was to complement the businesses surrounding them, not compete. So there is no canteen nor a gymnasium for students on campus.

Prof Bowman has been a great believer in working closely with the business community and a key example is the aviation degree involving Hinterland Aviation.

The Cairns campus was only established three years ago but has grown significantly. Last year CQU announced a $55m expansion plan which includes a new campus and a focus on aviation, high performance sports science and indigenous education.

In five years it is expected international students will outnumber their domestic counterparts.

Prof Bowman and his wife Anita are quitting CQU to go travelling while they are fit and young enough. May they enjoy their travels.

The challenge now is for the CQU Council to find a replacement to fill the big shoes of Prof Bowman.