Life on the wild side
A ten day study tour was enough inspiration for a five year stay in the jungle. In the third year of her Bachelor of Applied Science program, Rachael Nasplezes travelled to South Africa for a ten day study course at the Southern African Wildlife College. This life-altering experience inspired her to return a few months later when she graduated to work on social ecology and conservation projects for a further five years. During this time, Rachael worked with rural communities bordering one of Africa’s largest and most popular national parks, the Kruger National Park. “I helped communities to benefit from the Park and the large tourist trade generated by developing eco business options,” she said. “I also undertook fieldwork with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) on a buffalo tuberculosis project and was a research assistant on a project to reintroduce chimpanzees to Fisilagpo Island, Cote d’Ivoire.”
Rachael Nasplezes
“Having a connection with UQ was a critical factor in securing work in South Africa.”
Senior Community Engagement Officer Healthy Waterways
Since her return to Australia, Rachael has held various conservation roles with local councils, regional bodies and National NGO WetlandCare Australia.
UQ Qualifications Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Studies) 2004
She is now a Senior Community Engagement Officer for Healthy Waterways, a not-for-profit organisation based in Brisbane.
SALARY RANGE Minimum $63 000 Maximum $75 000 Average $69 000
In this role she communicates and educates communities on the science behind waterway health in South-East Queensland. “We work collaboratively with communities, government, industry, researchers and businesses to address threatening processes that can affect waterway health,” she said. “Depending on the action required, we can provide formal education resources and implement behaviour change campaigns to encourage positive action and improve our waterways.” Rachael enjoys her work as it integrates many social, economic and environmental factors. To further extend her knowledge she is currently completing a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management at UQ.
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