Role Title: Project Intern, Advice for Lake Builders
Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
Internship Period: Winter (June - July)
Location: 39 Northside Drive, Hillarys WA
The freshwater ecosystems of Western Australia, particularly in the metro area, are burdened with several introduced fish species, as well suffering from impacts from land use change, run-off, and changing rainfall regimes. Introduced species in our freshwater environment are typically considered tropical species yet manage to persist, typically due to less-than-ideal design of urban lakes and vegetation clearing.
Alongside DPIRD’s Aquatic Pest Biosecurity team, students will undertake research and analysis, working with subject matter experts, internal and external stakeholders, to develop resources and brochures aimed at developers, council and private land holders.
These resources will provide stakeholders with practical advice for both retrofitting, and designing from scratch, urban waterbodies that are more appropriate for our south-west endemic native fish, which are under threat. Improving outcomes for native fish is also likely to have flow on benefits addressing urban heat issues.
We work to develop and protect Western Australia’s agriculture and food sector and aquatic resources, and build vibrant regions with strong economies.