Kieara Nicholas

I am a Bachelor of Environmental Science (Wildlife and Conservation Biology) student with demonstrated experience in research and fieldwork. I have a strong passion for wildlife conservation and have gained valuable hands-on experience through placements in zoology and animal care. My background in hospitality has honed my attention to detail, communication skills, teamwork, and work ethic, all of which I have developed over several years of casual and part-time employment. I am enthusiastic about launching my career into a graduate program that will benefit me for future job opportunities. I am committed to leveraging my passion for safeguarding Victoria's biodiversity and influencing the public to value our native wildlife.

Deakin University Zoological & Wildlife Studies Fieldtrip   

Deakin University, Little Desert National Park, VIC  

26/08/2023 to 29/08/2023

• Collaborated effectively with fellow students during the field trip, successfully completing group tasks and receiving positive feedback from both peers and instructors.
• Collected data using the pitfall trapping method to support Wimmera CMA project officers in reintroducing the Mitchell’s Hoping Mouse to the Little Desert National Park.
• Accurately identified and recorded critical data, including time, date, weight, sex, and microchip status, providing high-quality information to the Wimmera CMA team.
• Assisted the project officer in safely capturing and microchipping native mice for release and tracking of their population.

Deakin University Australian Vegetation Fieldtrip
Deakin University, Anglesea Heathy Woodlands, Aireys Inlet, VIC 

12/08/2023 to 15/08/2023

• Enhanced teamwork skills through collaboration with fellow students during the field trip, particularly in completing plant identifications within our quadrats and preparing for the plant identification test.
• Collected plant identification data in the Anglesea Heathlands and accurately identified various plant species, including trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, lilies, and herbs, utilising a photographic herbarium.
• Emphasised the importance of collecting floristic data related to the burn history of our field sites for inclusion in our field reports.
• Collaborated to determine the most efficient approach for navigating our quadrats while identifying plant species and accurately recording cover/abundance percentages.

Work Placement
Kyabram Fauna Park, Kyabram, VIC

14/11/2022 to 28/11/2022

• Prepared appropriate food for various species within the park, supporting keepers with their feeding rounds for the day and the upcoming week.
• Maintained and cleaned animal enclosures before visitor arrival, ensuring optimal health and safety standards for both animals and visitors.
• Assisted Park staff with onsite browse collection to ensure that specific species had adequate food, shelter, and enrichment.
• Adhered to health and safety protocols when entering enclosures, using F10 to disinfect boots and tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Monitored the health of species throughout the park, collaborating with park keepers to assess and address any health concerns.

• Animal Ethics Certificate (Part 1) Issued January 2022
• Completed online training about the legal and regulatory framework involved when work involves animals at Deakin University.
• Basic Wildlife Rescue and Transport course Issued July 2021
• Completed a day course on how to safely attain injured wildlife and how to transport to carers.
• Lab safety Induction program Issued February 2021
• Completed online training about how to safely conduct and work within a lab environment, what to wear and what to do in an emergency.
• Construction Induction (White Card) Issued January 2017
• Completed a day course on Construction safety