All secondary schools in Australia are invited to join Bush Heritage Australia for Science Superstars: Careers in Environmental Science & Conservation.

On the eve of National Careers Week, this virtual event offers the opportunity for senior secondary school students to connect with, learn from and be inspired by professionals in the fields of environmental science and conservation. In sharing their experiences, insights and passions, our presenters from the Bush Heritage team will provide valuable information and advice about career pathways and opportunities and the benefits of working in this important field.

With a greater focus on the importance of environmental protection, tackling the climate crisis and halting biodiversity loss, there is a rising demand and a burgeoning depth within the environment and conservation sector. The environmental challenges we face call for more passionate, intelligent and tenacious people to join the ranks of ecologists, conservation officers, environmental scientists, wildlife officers, environment and sustainability consultants and so many others who are stepping up to combine their talents.

Using personal stories, experiences in learning and education and examples of project work to illustrate their journey, our presenters will provide an overview of their professional life and the rewards on offer for students interested in similar careers.

Check out the information booklet for schools to find out more, and access the optional student assignment 'Backyard BioBlitz''.

OUR PRESENTERS

Vanessa Westcott

Vanessa has been with Bush Heritage for 9 years and has held roles as our Regional Ecologist, West Region, Senior Ecologist, and Ecologist for NSW, working closely with our Science & Conservation team and Traditional Owners. Vanessa has completed a Bachelor of Arts and Science with Honours in Ecology and a PhD in plant and fire ecology.

Sam Fischer

Sam has been with Bush Heritage for 3 years, starting with Field Officer roles at our Bon Bon and Boolcoomatta reserves in SA. He is now the Reserve Manager at Eurardy in WA. Sam has completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in Natural Resource Management with the University of Adelaide.

Verity Carscadden

Verity is a Bush Heritage intern working in the mid-west region, undertaking flora and fauna monitoring across our Hamelin, Eurardy and Charles Darwin Reserves. Verity has Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Biology), and a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) at ANU, and has also recently completed Honours in Conservation at UWA.

Dan Lim

Dan is a Senior Environmental Consultant with Arup, one of Bush Heritage Australia’s collaborative partners. Dan studied a Bachelor of Applied Science, Environmental Management and has a Masters in Science, Geography. His career in environmental and ecological consulting has given him practical experience in the delivery of multi-billion dollar projects, understanding the needs of clients and stakeholders to deliver complex, environmentally-responsible outcomes, and work in a variety of environmental disciplines.

OUR HOST

Michelle Stook

Michelle has worked at Bush Heritage for eight years and heads our Seeding the Future program to develop new and inspiring opportunities for those looking to build a career within the conservation sector. Michelle was previously our National Volunteer Program Coordinator, and has recently completed a secondment with Birdlife Australia.

Event times

VIC, NSW, ACT, TAS, QLD: 11.30am - 1.00pm

SA, NT: 11.00am - 12.30pm

WA: 9.30am - 11.00am

Please direct any questions to Events Coordinator Megan Pritchard.