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Graduate helps protect Noosa’s environment
University of the Sunshine Coast graduate Kris Boody is diving headlong into a job that looks set to bring both environmental and tourism benefits for Noosa.
Kris, 34, of Mudjimba, graduated on May 18 with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Environmental Science, and is now working as an environmental project officer for Noosa Shire Council.
His work involves coordinating algae mitigation trials and sand dredging, monitoring water quality programs in Noosa River and general marine and coastal management across the shire.
Kris also coordinates volunteers and scientific contractors for the council and works to increase community awareness about Noosa’s environmental assets.
“What I’ve studied at USC has definitely inspired me a lot,” he said. “It’s given me the tools to understand what I’m looking for in data.”
Kris said his work at Noosa Council complemented his weekend “hobbies” of coordinating a seagrass watch program with the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association and leading the Sunshine Coast branch of Reef Check Australia.
“Reef Check is a community monitoring program to measure the reef’s health and the impact of humans on the reef,” he said.
“There are certain indicator species which tell us about the health of the reef – fish, invertebrates and corals.”
Kris said his Reef Check work could help the community understand what was out at the reefs, quantify the human impact on it, and even increase the tourism dollar for the dive industry.
Kris, who grew up in Gympie and went to James Nash State High School, said he enjoyed studying at USC, particularly the fieldwork.
“The University’s workplace learning program which helps students get field work experience is helpful for graduates to get into the workforce,” he said.
“I also liked having the ability to study close to home… I didn't need to move away or travel to Brisbane,” he said.
“The academic staff were very approachable, and are very helpful, even now that I am no longer a student.”