Scholarship helps Indus follow his passion

His connection to the water is not just an escape but the driving force behind his marine science dreams.

Raised near the picturesque Lamberts Beach in Mackay, his passion for the marine environment is a lifelong affair. This led the James Cook University (JCU) Bachelor of Marine Science student to apply for the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) Marine Science Scholarship, an important step in his academic and professional journey.

As part of the scholarship, Indus spends time with leading port industry experts at NQBP gaining real-world experience and links to future employers.

“University teaches you a lot of technical information and opportunities like this to work alongside experts in the field allows me to understand what I am learning and how it applies to the industry,” Indus said.

“The experience I get with NQBP enhances the learning that I do with JCU while being able to put my foot in the door.”

From monitoring turtles with Juru Enterprise Limited to contributing to a bi-annual hydrographic survey at the Port of Mackay, Indus is gaining diverse experience in his emerging career.

“I recently completed an intensive course looking at marine geoscience technologies and applications, looking at ways we can measure our marine and geological worlds,” Indus said.

“What I learnt in the classroom was very similar to the equipment hydrographers use within ports. It was great to have the opportunity to go out and use this technology while being supported by industry experts.”

Now in his third and final year of studies, Indus is looking towards the future, with the NQBP Marine Science Scholarship helping steer his course.

“I really enjoy working on the water. When I complete my studies, I would like to do my commercial marine qualifications,” Indus said.

“But ultimately, I’ve done the Bachelor of Marine Science out of interest in the subject and passion for the marine world. I don’t mind where I end up if I have my toes in the water.”

Background

NQBP is a Queensland Government-owned corporation responsible for the ports of Mackay, Abbot Point, Hay Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland.

In 2022, Indus was awarded the NQBP Marine Science Scholarship which includes a financial bursary and placement with industry experts for each year of his studies.

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Image: NQBP Marine Science Scholarship recipient and JCU student, Indus Fisher, joined NaMaSys aboard their ‘Sounds Good’ vessel for a bi-annual hydrographic survey at the Port of Mackay.