Introducing State Library’s new RDDO for North-North West Queensland

State Library of Queensland is pleased to welcome Rick Hospers as the new Regional Digital Development Officer (RDDO) for North-North West Queensland. With his deep understanding of regional challenges and a passion for digital equity, Rick brings a wealth of experience and a strong vision for strengthening digital inclusion in the region.

In regional and remote Queensland, people can face barriers in accessing technology and developing the skills and confidence to use it effectively. While digital tools are increasingly essential for everyday life, from accessing health services to staying in touch with family, a lack of digital capability can leave individuals feeling isolated or left behind.

Rick, who grew up on cane farms in Mackay and has held leadership roles in the telecommunications sector, including with NBN Co, understands the issues firsthand.

“It’s a real challenge for communities, large properties and graziers to have the same level of access as towns and cities,” he says. “But with more accessible satellite technology and greater awareness of what’s possible, we can bridge that gap.”

He believes in showing people what technology can do—whether it’s upskilling for careers, automating farming practices, or telehealth services that connect remote residents to vital healthcare.

“People need to see it in action. That’s how we build confidence and overcome fear; especially around scams and online safety.”

State Library RDDOs collaborate with local councils to design free digital literacy programs delivered through public libraries. These programs are tailored to be welcoming, hands-on, and relevant—empowering residents to build the skills and confidence needed to engage with the digital world independently.

In June, Rick will be visiting Normanton, Carpentaria, and Burke to assess local digital capability needs.

“Solutions have to be grounded in local knowledge,” Rick explains. “We need to understand what’s holding people back and work together to build skills, trust, and access.”

We’re delighted to welcome Rick to the team and look forward to the positive impact he’ll bring as part of our ongoing commitment to digital inclusion across regional and remote Queensland.

The Regional Digital Development project is a key initiative of the Queensland Government’s Our Thriving Digital Future: Queensland’s Digital Economy Strategy