The Geraldton Universities Centre (GUC), led by Natalie Nelmes Director of GUC and SPERA Secretary, recently celebrated a significant milestone, recognising 43 graduating students at a formal ceremony held at the Queens Park Theatre.

Surrounded by family, friends and the wider community, the graduates marked the culmination of years of dedication, resilience and hard work. Their achievements reflect not only individual success, but the strength of a model that places regional communities at the centre of higher education. This year’s graduates completed qualifications across a diverse range of disciplines, including Accounting, Business and Commerce, Digital Media, Education, Human Services, Nursing and Psychological Science. These programs were delivered through strong partnerships with CQUniversity, University of Southern Queensland and Curtin University — demonstrating the power of collaboration in expanding access to education in regional Australia.

In his keynote address, GUC Board Chair Jody Beven highlighted the values that underpin the Centre’s success: community, aspiration, partnership and equity. He reflected on the founding vision of GUC — a belief that every young person should have access to higher education without needing to leave their community. Through strong partnerships and local collaboration, that vision continues to be realised.

Importantly, equity remains central to GUC’s mission. A significant proportion of students come from low socio-economic backgrounds, many are the first in their family to attend university, and Aboriginal students are strongly represented. This reinforces the critical role regional university centres play in creating pathways and removing barriers to education.

Graduate speakers shared powerful insights into the modern student experience, where balancing work, study and personal commitments has become the norm. Their stories highlighted not only the challenges, but also the unique advantages of applying learning directly within their communities.

Bachelor of Nursing graduate Clancy Huggins spoke candidly about the realities of studying while working, noting that determination and support made it possible to pursue both career and education simultaneously. Similarly, Bachelor of Accounting graduate Liyamaria Thomas reflected on the value of combining study with real-world experience, emphasising how this strengthened her skills and affirmed her career direction.

The evening also celebrated cultural pride and achievement, with Aboriginal graduates recognised for their contributions and presented with sashes acknowledging both their identity and success — a meaningful reminder of the importance of inclusive and culturally responsive education.

With this latest cohort, GUC’s alumni network now stands at 648 graduates, each contributing to the social, economic and professional fabric of their communities. This celebration is more than a graduation — it is a testament to what is possible when communities, institutions and individuals work together to create accessible, high-quality education in regional Australia.

SPERA congratulates the Class of 2026 and acknowledges the ongoing leadership of Natalie Nelmes and the GUC team in strengthening pathways for regional learners.