From turtle monitoring with Traditional Owners to shipping movements from a tug’s perspective, Elijah Kingston has had a week of real-world experience alongside the North Queensland Bulk Ports’ (NQBP) environment team.
The first year James Cook University (JCU) Bachelor of Marine Science student is an NQBP Marine Science Scholarship recipient, which provides him with financial help throughout his studies, as well as the invaluable opportunity to work alongside researchers and port industry managers.
Read more about his week with NQBP.
What was your main reason for applying for the scholarship?
I applied for the scholarship to gain practical experience and an understanding of how NQBP operates. My aim was to see firsthand how NQBP is involved with marine science and understand the potential research and conservation roles I could delve into in the future.
What was the best part of your week with us?
The best part of my week was when I was lucky enough to work with Traditional Owners Juru Enterprise Limited (JEL) at Abbot Point conducting turtle monitoring. This opened my eyes to how significant the relationship is between NQBP and the Traditional Owners.
I enjoyed speaking to Traditional Owners and learning how their knowledge can be used in scientific research for a collaborative future.
What experiences and skillsets did you learn during your time with NQBP?
The experience I had while on placement with NQBP gave me an insight into the direction I want to take in my career. I have learnt how NQBP applies research and conservation to the port environment to create a sustainable future. This has inspired me to pursue a career in this field.
How do you think this hands-on experience will help your academic studies and future career path?
The hands-on experience will help my studies as I have gained an understanding of how the skills, I am learning at JCU can be applied to a real-world career.
As well as this, I now have practical skills that can help me become more employable in the future. This opportunity has allowed me to be more involved with the marine science community which will significantly help me to take part in field work prospects in the future.
Did working on the industry side with NQBP bring up potential fields that you may want to explore in the future either in research or management?
Working with NQBP has increased my scope for a diverse range of careers. Within the short time with NQBP, I was able to talk to many different staff in the environmental team. This has sparked my interest in research and monitoring of marine megafauna as well as the conservation of marine environments.
What would you say to someone who might be interested in applying for a future scholarship?
The placement offered by NQBP is something I highly regard and would recommend to any future marine scientist student. I would tell them that the experience and range of practical skills to learn from the internship is extremely worthwhile and is a perfect way to open up pathways for a career in marine science.
Applications are now open for the 2024 NQBP Marine Science Scholarship. Find out more about applying.
NQBP scholarship recipient and JCU Marine Science student Elijah Kingston learning about Port of Mackay's conservation area the Kommo Toera Trail.
