In May, our Healthy Estuaries WA Innovative Remediation Team hosted a field day with North Metropolitan TAFE students at our trial site at Cox Bay Lakes in Mandurah.
DWER scientists Ryan, Mark and Zoe provided hands-on learning experiences, introducing students to some of the water quality assessment techniques used to evaluate the impacts of hydrotalcite clay treatment at the local lake.
Working in groups, the students calibrated instruments including a water-quality probe that measures temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and turbidity. They then used the probe to record conditions and collected water samples from the lake and nearby groundwater monitoring wells. The samples were filtered and processed for laboratory analysis. Finally – and perhaps most importantly – the students learned how to complete field datasheets correctly.
“The field day at Cox Bay North Lake provided an invaluable bridge between classroom theory and practical, industry-aligned application,” TAFE lecturer Ngai Ning Cheng said.
“Seeing the students engage so enthusiastically with Ryan and the DWER team on critical monitoring processes and quality assurance and quality control procedures was a highlight. It is exactly these types of hands-on, collaborative experiences that empower and prepare our emerging environmental professionals to thrive in the sector.”
Ryan Kam led the field day, inviting students not only to learn proper techniques but also to think critically about why fieldwork requires certain procedures, the natural factors that influence water quality and what the measurements reveal about the broader health of the lake.
Ngai Ning said the students felt extremely welcome and enjoyed the opportunity to bridge the gap between coursework and industry practice.
“Beyond the practical experience, I saw it as an opportunity to showcase the important work being delivered through the Healthy Estuaries WA initiative and the Bindjareb Djilba (Peel-Harvey) Protection Plan, and to highlight how environmental monitoring supports effective management and healthier waterways,” Ryan said.
“As environmental scientists, many of us benefited from similar opportunities early in our careers. It was a privilege to share our experiences with the students and help support the next generation of environmental professionals.”
Learn more about the water treatment trial at Cox Bay North Lake here.
