Community
17 December, 2025
Uni plays role in proposal
IN a moment charged with eight years of shared history, long-distance devotion and fond memories, CQUniversity Cairns Campus played a pivotal role in the lives of two former CQU students last month, becoming the unforgettable backdrop for a surprise proposal.
Surrounded by the familiar warmth of the campus that shaped both their studies and their relationship, James Brown knelt before his partner Rhanee Casillano and asked the question: “Will you marry me?”
With a heartfelt, joy-filled “yes”, the pair celebrated in the very spot in the reception foyer where a five-minute conversation first set their story in motion.
Their story began in July 2017, when both were waiting for appointments with their lecturers. Ms Casillano, newly arrived from the Philippines, sat quietly in the corner of the reception area preparing for her first academic paper.
Mr Brown, a mature-age student reviewing an exam with his lecturer, noticed her, offered a smile and started a conversation neither realised would change the course of their lives.
“We talked about our degrees, our travels and the places we loved to eat,” she said.
What began as a brief exchange grew into a steady friendship built on shared coffees, study sessions and a mutual passion for supporting fellow students.
Mr James’ move to the UK ended the relationship, until his return to Australia two years later.
He saw Ms Casillano again and they rekindled their romance.
