Alexandra Rummenie

Centre Manager

Alexandra is passionate about the importance of higher education and the integral role it plays in providing avenues for success, particularly for those living in rural communities. She has lived and worked in the Chinchilla and Brigalow communities for over 25 years and recently completed a Master of Education online through QUT whilst working locally as a teacher-librarian. This experience gives Alexandra first-hand contemporary perspectives on the challenges remote online learning presents, helping her assist and support students in navigating the complexities of study, along with other responsibilities they may have in their lives.

Matthew Burke

Executive Director

Matthew has lived in the region for the majority of his life. As the Principal Partner of an accounting and business advisory firm, Matthew brings over 30 years’ experience in accounting, business advisory, and strategic planning.

Matthew has a Bachelor of Business in Accounting and Information Technology, and a Diploma of Financial Planning from the University of Southern Queensland.

Matthew see’s the CUC Western Downs as an opportunity to build the skills of our local community.

"It will allow us to bridge the education gap, by delivering higher education locally, eliminating the need for relocation and unlocking their untapped potential. This will contribute to the development and resilience of our community."

Robert Burke

Executive Director

Rob grew up in country Queensland having completed his schooling at both Yarraman State School and Nanango State High School. He completed a Bachelor of Education (Physical Education/Biology) in 1996 and has worked for the last 26 years for the Department of Education in Gladstone, Hervey Bay and now Chinchilla.

In October 2022, Rob took up his position as Principal of Chinchilla State High School, where he has sought ways to advance opportunities for his students across all areas. This is particularly evident by the school’s inclusion this year into two Gateway Schools programs in Hydrogen and Advanced Manufacturing.

Rob has a genuine desire to ensure access to higher education for rural and regional residents. He sees the CUC pathway as a viable option for people to achieve the tertiary qualifications necessary to fill local vacancies, while being able to remain part of their local community throughout their courses.

Robyn Haig

Executive Director

As a proud resident of the Chinchilla district Robyn Haig is an advocate for regional development and community growth. She currently serves as the Director of Regional Development for Darling Downs and Southwest Queensland, playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth and community initiatives across the region.
A strong advocate for local business and industry, Robyn is the Secretary of Chinchilla Community Commerce and Industry, where she previously served as Chamber Manager from 2017 to 2023. Her career spans a diverse range of industries, including roles in coal seam gas (CSG) drilling and civil construction in the Surat Basin.

Robyn’s exceptional contributions to the community were recognized when she was named Regional Citizen of the Year at the 2022 Western Downs Australia Day Awards. She is widely respected for her expertise in community consultation, strategic planning, and project delivery, all of which she leverages to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of regional economies and communities.

In addition to her current role, Robyn brings valuable experience from working with the Queensland Government Departments of Natural Resources and Primary Industries, Regional Natural Resource Management, Landcare, local government (Tourism & Community Development), and the banking sector.

Outside her professional life, Robyn is a passionate primary producer. Together with her husband and two children, she operates a small beef cattle grazing property on the Western Downs, further deepening her connection to the land and her community.