Recognition for environmental leaders

• Achievement in conservation, land management and environmental regulation 

Fifty-eight public officers from three State Government agencies have been congratulated for their outstanding efforts in environmental management.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said the Liberal National Government was well placed to continue significant work in managing the State's natural environment with the leadership shown by the Department of Parks and Wildlife, Department of Environment Regulation and the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority.

"A wide array of programs in wildlife conservation, bushfire management, environmental regulation and park management are being successfully implemented across the State. This could not be achieved without well trained, dedicated and enthusiastic staff," Mr Jacob said.

The Minister said the Western Shield award, which recognised commitment and excellence in animal conservation, had been awarded to Parks and Wildlife officer Robert Brazell, who had been with the project since its inception in 1996.

"Robert was a key person in developing and implementing the production of the Eradicat bait, a scientific breakthrough which has since successfully controlled feral cats in various locations across the State," he said.

Department of Environment Regulation contaminated sites officer Rowena Beaton was recognised for being awarded a scholarship to complete a Master of Hydrogeology.

"Rowena is a key officer in the contaminated sites team who work to protect and improve the quality of our groundwater.  I commend Rowena for embarking on education that will further this purpose," Mr Jacob said.

The Fire Management Reward and Recognition Program Outstanding Leadership Award was presented to Parks and Wildlife South Coast regional manager Greg Mair.

"Greg is one of the most respected bushfire incident controllers and has commanded some of the State's most significant bushfires during the past decade," the Minister said.

Parks and Wildlife Aboriginal Trainee of the Year was Peter Curtin.

"Peter is an extremely worthy recipient who successfully completed his qualifications in a record time of 11 months," Mr Jacob said.

"I congratulate all the graduates and award recipients for their contributions to environmental management in Western Australia."

Fact File

• Five Parks and Wildlife officers graduated from the department's Mentored Aboriginal Training and Employment Scheme 

Minister's office - 6552 5800