¶ ANAI Gelmi is looking forward to putting her Environmental Science degree to good use in her new role with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ (DBCA) Parks and Wildlife Service in Collie.
The recent graduate has taken on the role of conservation manager following a selection process that included initial video submissions, interviews and a residential selection school in Dwellingup.
Ms Gelmi, who hails from a farm south of Bunbury, said Parks and Wildlife is the “perfect place” for her to help protect the environment.
She said it is hard to pinpoint her favourite area.
“I definitely have an interest in conservation, working with native flora and fauna, and getting the opportunity to be amongst nature at work is incredible,” she said.
“I think I'm really drawn to visitor service too, it’s such an amazing way to share my passion with other people.
“But I can't leave out fire management. The work fire crews do literally saves lives, which is insane.”
While Ms Gelmi spent a lot of time camping, hiking and exploring in Collie growing up, she said she is still discovering new sights and places every week through work.
“There is so much variety in the region that makes every day different and I love it,” she said.
“I also think it's amazing how you can drive five minutes out of town and feel like you're in the middle of the bush - you don't get that in many places.”
Over the course of her two-year graduate contract, Ms Gelmi will rotate through different operational areas.
Ms Gelmi said being back in the country after spending the last three years in Perth is “a welcome change”.
“Starting a new job is always pretty daunting, but everyone in the office has made the transition so much easier,” she said.
“There's been no shortage of advice and help, and I've felt at home much faster than I expected.”