Name:David
Title/role:Support Scientist with The Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research
Location:Goulburn Valley and East Murray Valley regions

Description of work undertaken
The majority of Michael's work involves on-farm consultation with dairy farmers regarding the cow's diet, general herd management, feed budgeting, partial financial budgeting, sales and trouble shooting. General public relations and company promotions at field days and farm walks form an important part of his role.

Course studied
Michael completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture) at the University of Melbourne, Dookie College campus. He has also completed a "Lead on Dairy" Leadership course, "Field Marketing" and "Agri-selling Skills" program.

Advice to students
Students up to year 10
Keep your options open. Try to do work experience at a range of different places to get an idea of what you like.

VCE students
Try to keep a balanced lifestyle - don't make study your whole life. Keep playing sport and have a social life, without compromising study, as this helps with stress management.

Tertiary students
Michael's advice is if you don't have a definite career path in mind or even if you do, choose a range of elective subjects. Don't be too specific as this will limit your career choices and opportunities in the future. Michael had originally planned to work in the genetics industry, but got a role in nutrition instead. In hind sight Michael was pleased with his choice of moving into the nutrition field as the role keeps him stimulated mentally, dealing with the complexities of ruminant nutrition and having to keep up with new research. Describe your typical day: I spend a lot of time analysing data and computer programming, I also participate in project meetings with other scientists and attend seminars, workshops and conferences. What has helped you to get to your current position? My degree gave me a good basis but a lot of what I do now has been picked up on the job. A lot of support from teachers, friends and peers I has helped me get to where I am now. What keeps you motivated? The constant challenges and relevance of the studies and projects. How does your work make a difference? It provides support to and enables vital decisions to be made by government, non – government organisations and businesses. What advice do you have for students still at school? Try and study things you are interested in. Whilst following your passion may not seem to lead anywhere you will be surprised by the opportunities out there and the paths they lead you down.

Salinity in an Urban Landscape - Braeside Park Fieldtrip

Year 8 students from Patterson River Secondary College have recently visited Braeside Park to complete salinity fieldwork. Students learned about the cause, impact and management of salinity in an urban environment first hand.

Salinity poses a significant threat to Australian environments and is an issue that affects both rural and urban landscapes. LandLearn's fieldtrip is suitable for Geography and Science Levels 5 - 6 and VCE Geography, Environmental Science and Outdoor and Environmental Studies. To obtain a copy of this resource containing fieldwork notes and student worksheets contact us at landlearn.program@dpi.vic.gov.au.

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