Lisa Brazier - Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health Practice
What lead you to study at Flinders University?
After making the decision to study a postgraduate environmental health course, I looked for a university that could provide me with the flexibility to complete the course around full time work. Being a resident of New South Wales, it was also important that the course was delivered online. I wanted the course I undertook to be fully accredited and be taught by professors and lecturers who were highly regarded in the field. The Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health Practice at Flinders University met every one of my criteria. I am also required to complete postgraduate environmental health qualifications as part of my traineeship and Flinders was highly recommended by previous trainees.
Was it always your intention to study Environmental Health – if so, what draws you to this field?
While I took my time deciding what career path was best for me, environmental health was always of interest and was continuously a strong contender when deciding what my future path would be. At the end of 2022, I made the decision to pursue environmental health and applied to study a Graduate Diploma of Environmental Health Practice.
I was drawn to environmental health for several reasons. Firstly, the balance between field work and office work, common for a role in environmental health, really suited me. I wouldn’t be stuck behind a desk all day, everyday. The interest and variety of topics within the environmental health field also appealed to me, with stories from current EHO’s highlighting that ‘no two days are the same.’ I was also drawn to the environmental health field as it provides an opportunity to make a positive difference to the community, to be involved in preventing disease and creating healthier environments.
What is your current favourite topic and why?
I am currently mid-way through my postgraduate degree and my favourite topic so far is Environmental Health Concepts. I studied this topic in my first semester, and it provided a great introduction to the world of environmental health and the wide variety of topic areas that fall within the field.
What are your thoughts on the future trajectory of Environmental Health 30 years from now?
Public health risks evolve over time and the role of environmental health will likely evolve with it. I believe that the field of environmental health will become increasingly important into the future as communities tackle emerging health issues such as those brought about by our changing climate. As we move into the future, I would like to see greater awareness within the community about Environmental Health, the valuable work we do and the career options available.
What advice do you have for your younger self, or for students beginning their career in Environmental Health?
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to get involved in environmental health sooner.
For other students beginning their career in environmental health, I would recommend taking opportunities to gain hands on work experience while you are studying. Whether that is voluntary work experience or a paid traineeship opportunity, the ability to compliment your studies with hands on experience in the field is extremely valuable. I was fortunate enough to secure a traineeship with my local Public Health Unit which allows me work in the field while I complete my postgraduate qualifications.
Stuart Hastie - Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health Practice
What lead you to study at Flinders University?
My decision to study Environmental Health has been to develop a better understanding of the regulatory world we operate in. The Flinders University course offered a high level of industry recognition, and flexibility to study around full-time employment. It is also a gateway back into study.
I firmly believe in furthering education and knowledge. The Australian Food Industry is changing, regulation has moved focus and there is now an understanding that sustainability and environmental impact are as important as food safety.
Was it always your intention to study Environmental Health – if so, what draws you to this field?
No, my career focus has very much been food and the food manufacturing industry, specifically focused on innovation, operations, and quality as a Product Development Chef and Food Technologist.
Environmental Health builds nicely on this foundation as there are a lot of commonalities in approach and an understanding however there are also opportunities to stretch my knowledge and understand events from other perspectives.
Kirsten Kennington - Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health Practice
What lead you to study at Flinders University?
I chose Flinders University for two reasons. Firstly, Flinders University offers the qualification I need to become an Environmental Health Officer, and secondly it is South Australia where I live so I feel more connected to the university even though I am undertaking the qualification online.
Was it always your intention to study Environmental Health – if so, what draws you to this field?
In 2009 when I worked as a Public Health Officer, a manager at Communicable Disease Control Branch mentioned that they were an Environmental Health Officer by training.
In 2022 after a very interesting but exhausting couple of years working in public health, I decided to look for something that would be an ongoing role that would allow me to grow and develop professionally. I spoke to a manager at a council close to me, and that led me to think that I would enjoy and be good at being an Environmental Health Officer (EHO). I enrolled as a student and organised some work shadowing at a regional council where I became surer that I was on the right track. I was also offered work for two months at the same council as an Administration and Technical Support Officer with the Environmental Health Officers. That experience solidified my decision to become an EHO. I loved the contact with community, business owners, colleagues, and I loved the variety that each day brought. With a strong background in public health and microbiology, I found that the work fitted well.
What is your current favourite topic and why?
I haven’t yet completed every topic, but I am finding toxicology interesting. As far as work goes, I think the hoarding and squalor jobs for a challenge, and wastewater for the satisfaction of a basic public health outcome.
What are your thoughts on the future trajectory of Environmental Health 30 years from now?
Climate change will affect the distribution of vectors and the frequency of natural disasters such as floods and fires. This is an opportunity for EHOs to be more involved in preventive work to assist with public health interventions.
What advice do you have for your younger self, or for students beginning their career in Environmental Health?
As a start to a career as an EHO (while studying) I would say, approach councils (or other places you would like to be employed) and talk to those who are already in the job you would like to do. As soon as possible organise some work shadowing, join a professional organisation such as Environmental Health Australia, and ask questions about the industry and the job.
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