THE Tamworth University Reference Group went to Canberra to meet Education Minister Dan Tehan, and they were quick to show him they weren't there for a haircut.
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The group presented him with a thick ring-bound document, which outlined the comprehensive argument for Tamworth to have its own university.
On the front of the document, in large easy-to-read bold print, was a quote from the Education Minister himself.
It read: "Every Australian, no matter where they live, should have access to Australia's world-leading higher education system" - Hon. Dan Tehan MP, 12/11/18.
Well played, Tamworth University Reference Group, well played.
Group spokesman Mitch Hanlon said throughout the meeting, he caught Minister Tehan looking at the quote.
It seemed to have the desired effect, because Mr Tehan told The Leader the group "put forward a very impressive presentation".
Mr Tehan made it clear that he was aware of Tamworth's need for a university and said the proposal "aligns with our government's commitment to supporting regional universities".
"We want to work with the NSW government to ensure that they provide the funding that they committed to this important project, and also see what our government can do to further support this," he said.
Now we wait to see if action will follow the words. The University of New England proposal is seeking $10 million from the federal government, to fund part of the 500-person campus in the city's CBD.
The reference group said if no steps towards that goal are made within the next month, they'll be asking why.
"We'll bring all three levels of government to the table along with UNE, to see what the blockades are," Tamworth Business Chamber president and reference group member Jye Segboer said.
All the decision makers and purse-string holders agree that the city needs a university and the UNE proposal makes sense.
Let's see if a solid funding commitment follows the head nodding.