SuniTAFE Conservation and Ecosystem Management students have been part of a team working to make a difference to the local ecosystem. 

For the past two years, the SuniTAFE students have worked alongside North Central CMA, OzFish Unlimited, Mallee Catchment Management Authority and SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium to implement a breeding program of Olive perchlet (Ambassis agassizi).  

Conservation and Ecosystem Management teacher Taylar Pay said in March 40 Olive perchlet roughly 20mm long were released into the SuniTAFE pond at the Mildura campus.  

“In April students worked on sampling, where they discovered in some cases the fish had doubled in size and some appeared to be ready to breed,” he said. 

“These are threatened fish; therefore, they are a key component to our food chain within the ecosystem so we are hoping this will be the start of a full-blown breeding program with potential of these fish being relocated into other systems and to repopulate those areas.” 

Mr Pay said allowing students to take part in a real-life project was exceptionally beneficial and allowed for students to gain a greater understanding of the units of work they are currently studying. 

SuniTAFE currently offers a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC31421), Certificate IV in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC40920), Certificate II in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC21020) and Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management (AHC51120).

For more information visit www.sunitafe.edu.au/courses/horticulture-and-agriculture/ahc51120-diploma-of-conservation-and-ecosystem-man.