News Archive

Over 80 students from the University of Western Australia travelled from Perth to join UWA Albany students for a week of intensive learning from 26th – 31 ^st January.

The unit ‘Saving Endangered Species’ involved a 7-day fieldwork component in Albany prior to the start of Semester 1.

Albany’s location in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots provided an ideal learning environment for an introduction to the conservation and management of threatened species.

Students got insights into the problems associated with saving threatened species from real life practitioners working in the Albany region, at State level and globally. They developed their skills in analysing the biology and ecology of threatened species, the threats they face, and the possible actions needed to achieve a successful recovery.

Guest lecturers included Professor Steve Hopper and Dr Barbara Cook from the Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management.

The integrated lecture and practical program enabled the integration of theory with actual practice. The use of guest lecturers and the involvement of practising environmental scientists was designed to increase the exposure of students to ‘real-world’ experiences in threatened species conservation, and also to gave an opportunity for students to establish contacts with potential employers.

“It’s a great opportunity for Perth students to experience the wonderful Albany environment as well as gain first-hand experience in the challenges facing conservation biologists,” said unit coordinator Dr Barbara Cook.

Media references

Dr Barbara Cook (Director, Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management)(+61 8)  9842 0837

Paula Phillips (UWA Albany Centre) (+61 8)  9842 0810