Bringing regional stories to life with free digital skills training

Campdrafting horsemanship, recruitment videos for regional construction and rail workers, and an Indigenous language music video are just a few of the exciting videos being developed by participants of the digital content creation workshops delivered by State Library in regional Queensland during December. 

Media trainer Suzie Cray from eMotion Video led the workshops in Cloncurry, Richmond, Julia Creek, and Mount Isa, providing practical tips on how to use smartphones to create captivating stories with video, photos, and audio content. Participants also explored phone features and apps, learned about budget-friendly tech gear, and how to edit a video to add a vital final flourish to their work.  

“It’s amazing to see how quickly participants can pick up these skills and start creating meaningful stories,” she said. 

The workshop is part of State Library’s Regional Digital Development project, which aims to boost digital skills and inclusion in regional communities.  

Mark Procter, Regional Digital Development Officer (RDDO) for North-North West Queensland, shared his excitement about the upcoming schedule of digital skills workshops planned for the region this year.

“A thriving digital economy relies on a range of factors, including the availability of digital skills and jobs, a concentration of digital businesses, and the integration of digital technologies into business and service processes,” he said.  

“By building these skills, we’re empowering individuals to participate more fully in the digital world, which can lead to greater economic opportunities, improved access to services, and a stronger sense of community.”

State Library’s RDDOs work with regional and remote councils to map and analyse digital economy indicators to identify ways to uplift digital skills and access to innovative technologies.

The digital content creation workshop will return to the region in February: 

• Tuesday 11 February 2025, 9 am to 1 pm, Burdekin Library, Ayr 

• Wednesday 12 February 2025, 9 am to 1 pm, Excelsior Library, Charters Towers 

• Thursday 13 February 2025, 9 am to 1 pm, Flinders Library, Hughenden 

• Friday 14 February 2025, 8:30 am to 1 pm, Citylibraries Riverway, Townsville  

• Wednesday 19 February 2025, 5:15 pm to 7:45 pm, TYTO Conference and Events Centre, Ingham 

• Tuesday 25 February 2025, 5:15 pm to 7:45 pm, TYTO Conference and Events Centre, Ingham 

Bookings are essential; download and book through the Digital and You app or contact your local library for more information.