Conservation graduates start regional careers with Western Australian Parks and Wildlife Service

Following a week-long orientation at Exmouth and nearby Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, the next generation of conservation managers have commenced their careers with Western Australian Parks and Wildlife Service which sits within the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

This marks the first regionally focused program since 2013 aimed at attracting talented young graduates to the Parks and Wildlife Service.

The 14 graduates hold degrees in wildlife conservation science, environmental science, marine biology and freshwater science, zoology, physics, and environment and heritage.

Many have grown up in Western Australian regional communities, further strengthening the program's local focus.

They were selected from a strong pool of applicants through an innovative selection process that included initial video submissions, interviews, and a residential selection school in Dwellingup.

The graduates will be based in regional and district offices from Albany to Kununurra, where they will experience various roles to enhance their capabilities and experience during their two-year graduate contract.

Over the course of their two-year graduate contracts, the graduates will rotate through various operational areas, including fire management, joint management with Traditional Owners, marine and land conservation, and visitor services, gaining hands-on experience in each.

WA Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn noted "I offer my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to the 14 graduates who are starting their public service journey.

"With a regionally based workforce, it makes sense to recruit the brightest talent from right across the State to build careers managing some of WA's most important natural assets, including national parks.

"I have no doubt these recruits will not just be great additions to the department, but also to the regional communities they will be living in."

Image. Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area