Teneille finds sustainability the key to both study and career
Published on 10 February, 2012
Emerald's Teneille Ryan has started a new role as a field officer for the Central Highlands Regional Resources Use Planning Co-operative (CHRRUP).
She says the flexibility of distance education has been key to enabling her environmental science studies with CQUniversity, while she travels throughout her work region.
"Working in the environmental field was a big milestone for me," Teneille says.
"For the short time I worked with DERM on a water quality project - monitoring sediment and herbicide run-off was very exciting, as I was finally putting what I have learnt to a practical experience.
"The field officer position with CHRRUP is also a rewarding position as it allows me to combine my two passions - sustainability and agriculture. Anyone studying and working full-time will understand that every subject you get through is a milestone!"
Teneille says her CQUniversity studies have helped her gain experience in the environmental sector. Though it's often difficult juggling work and study, the combination can be extremely rewarding.
"I am continually learning on the field as well as via the flex learning CQUni offers. Without the flex education the experiences I have gained and the ability to live locally would not have been possible," she says.
"With CHRRUP I will be working with landholders in the Nogoa catchment to apply for incentive funding for on-the-ground projects that help to improve ground cover and riparian (riverbank) sustainability.
"My aim this year is to be more involved in community groups. This will be made easier with working for CHRRUP as the role allows me to attend and be a part of community discussions on agricultural sustainability."