Council and CQUniversity strengthen working relationships

Published on 21 December 2016

Rockhampton Regional Council employee Courtney Freestone jumped at the chance to undertake a three month secondment with CQUniversity recently when the opportunity presented itself.

During the secondment, which commenced in September 2016, Courtney has been working as a Human Resources Assistant with the People and Culture Directorate at the CQUniversity North Rockhampton campus.

The secondment provides an opportunity for Courtney to develop her knowledge and skills of Human Resources whilst also working collaboratively with the University.

Courtney is currently half way through a Bachelor of Business (majoring in Management and Human Resource Management) and has used this opportunity to gain vital workplace experience that will help her develop her career.

“Before I came to CQUniversity I was working in the Human Resources Unit at Council on a three month contract. It was my first HR role and I absolutely loved it. My secondment at CQUniversity has provided me with the opportunity to further my learning and experience in HR,” Courtney said.

Courtney’s secondment is in line with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between both organisations that outlines that Council and CQUniversity will work together to produce mutually beneficial outcomes for both parties.

“Both organisations are quite similar and therefore can learn a lot from working together. Yes, both organisations do things differently but we also have a lot in common and experience many of the same issues which mean we have a lot to discuss and brainstorm!” Courtney says.

“I believe this secondment is a smart step forward towards creating a prosperous partnership where we can share resources, learnings, and build professional relationships”.

The MOU is a fantastic example of local organisations working collaboratively to improve outcomes for the Region.

Some of the benefits of the MOU include: identifying opportunities for student placements, collaboration on research opportunities, supporting the economic development of the Region, and mutual promotion of events.

Courtney’s contract ends with CQUniversity in December and she will return to Council at the start of 2017 to continue developing her career.

Photo attached: Shaelene Mullen (CQUni), Courtney Freestone and Lawrie Whouley (Coordinator HR, RRC).