CQU Bachelor of Environmental Science students recently heard presentations by representatives of the Capricorn Conservation Council (CCC), at Rockhampton Campus with video links to other campuses.

The team from CCC spoke about how students can contribute to making a difference while they are still studying, by doing volunteer work and becoming members of conservation groups.

The visitors discussed the excellent employment opportunities for environmental science students as a result of the current skill shortage.

Ian Herbert, Crystal Jasperson and Geoffrey Smith from Capricorn Conservation Council, with CQU's Mike Danaher who helped coordinate their visit

The presentation was initiated by CCC to encourage students to become actively involved in environmental groups prior to graduation.

Involvement with such groups provides an opportunity for students to make a difference, liase and network with industry and develop knowledge in the practical side of the environmental industry.

Capricorn Conservation Council Coordinator Crystal Jasperson provided a perspective, as a recent CQU graduate who is now working in the field of environmental protection.

Ian Herbert (President of the CCC) spoke about the roots of the generic environmental problem, and ethics for professional (environmental) scientists who engage with those problems.

Geoffrey Smith (Industry Liaison Officer, Mining and Biodiversity, Fitzroy Basin Association) spoke about the need for scientific investigation in Ecologically Sustainable Development (asking the right question/s), deciding whether an issue is a problem, communicating scientific recommendations to decision makers and whistle blowing as a last resort.

Details are available from Crystal Jasperson from CCC (email: ccc@cqnet.com.au : Phone: 49 278644).