Graduate Profile

Melissa Stewart
Pest Management Officer, Department of Primary Industries, Traralgon, Victoria

Bachelor of Science

“I can be called upon to respond to emergency situations both local and statewide, including fire, flood, drought or locust plagues.”

After completing a Bachelor of Science, specialising in Environmental Management, I obtained a 4-month work placement at Loy Yang Power Station before securing a full-time position as a Pest Management Officer with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) based at Traralgon.

The position involves working across West Gippsland ensuring land owners comply with provisions of the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 to control noxious weeds and pest animals on their land.

In this role I carry out formal investigations and law enforcement activities relating to breaches of the act. I have received specialised Law Enforcement training provided by the DPI. I also conduct field inspections, manage sales of commercial fox and rabbit baits, liase with key stakeholders, manage projects, compile reports and perform data entry.

Being part of DPI requires that I can be called upon to respond to emergency situations both local and statewide, including fire, flood, drought or locust plagues. This emergency response work, as well as my normal daily duties, enables me to interact closely with other government agencies, such as DSE, Parks Victoria and VicForests.

The range of science subjects offered at Monash University Gippsland Campus allowed me to study areas of interest, and provided me with flexibility in my career choice. The course prepared me with skills to conduct experiments, write reports, and undertake research and investigations.