The Sunshine Coast’s Australia Zoo is loved for its role in protecting and showcasing Australian wildlife, and for the larger-than-life Irwin family who remain one of the Zoo’s ever-present features.
But Australia Zoo also plays a crucial role in giving the next generation of conservationists, zoologists, veterinarians and bio scientists vital career experience.
La Trobe’s partnership with Australia Zoo – now entering its eighth year – has seen more than 70 students make the journey to Queensland for an industry placement at the zoo.
“Our role is to get as many people as passionate about wildlife conservation as we possibly can,” says Australia Zoo’s Alistair Lavers. “The La Trobe program is one way we can do that.”
As part of their placement, students spend an intensive three-week period onsite. They combine the experience with for-credit coursework, enabling them to connect practice with theory and engage in personal and career reflection.
Bachelor of Wildlife and Conservation Biology student Jessica Macdonald completed her placement at Australia Zoo.
“I have been trying to get into zookeeping for years,’ Jessica reflects.
“This has been the perfect opportunity to work in a world-class conservation facility. I have gained so much experience.”
Highlights for Jess included the chance to feed and care for animals, maintain habitats and educate the visiting public – opportunities that are highly sought-after for students who want to make an impact and care deeply about animal and wildlife conservation.
“We understand that people are motivated to make change if it's personal, if they are excited, and if we can connect with a concept directly,” says Alistair. “That's what Australia Zoo is all about.”
