Ecosure is proud to welcome a talented group of new Graduate Ecologists to our team! These emerging professionals bring diverse backgrounds, fresh perspectives, and a shared passion for protecting and restoring our natural environments. As part of our graduate program, they’ll rotate through different teams and projects, gaining hands-on experience in ecological consulting, fieldwork, reporting, and strategic partnerships. 

We’re excited to support their growth and watch them thrive as they contribute to real-world conservation outcomes. 

Here’s a look at some of the incredible people joining us this year: 

🌿 Amina Akbar 

Rotation: Strategic Partnerships  

Branch/Location: Brisbane 

Background: I graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Environmental Management (Honours). Early in my career, I held various roles in administration, workshop development, and mentoring. While these weren’t directly related to the environmental field, they helped me build strong organisational skills that I continue to use today. I later transitioned into consultancy, working for a year as an aquatic ecologist in a lab-based role. I’ve also volunteered with the National Parks Association of Queensland, where I helped deliver nature education programs for children, introducing them to ecology, wildlife, and the role of rangers in conservation. 

“Nearly two months in, I’m really enjoying the variety in my Graduate Ecologist role at Ecosure. From fieldwork to ecological reporting and even supporting marketing and conferences, it’s been exciting to see how science, strategy, and storytelling come together in our work. I’m learning so much and feel lucky to be growing alongside such a passionate and experienced team.” 

🌿 Tom Cowan 

Rotation: Flora  

Branch/Location: Rockhampton 

Background: My career began as a tutor during high school, followed by a role as a science technician with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries while completing my university studies. After graduating from the University of Queensland, I joined Ecosure as a bush regenerator for approximately eight months before transitioning into my current position as a Graduate Ecologist. 

“My time at Ecosure as a graduate ecologist has been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a knowledgeable and supportive team. A major highlight was a recent trip to Chinchilla to conduct fauna and flora surveys, which was a fantastic hands-on experience. I’m excited to continue developing my skills and grow professionally.” 

🌿 Rhiannon Pitt 

Rotation: Flora  

Branch/Location: Sunshine Coast 

Background: I joined Ecosure in 2022 as a bush regenerator, gaining strong plant ID skills and hands-on experience in restoration techniques across diverse ecosystems in Southeast Queensland. In 2025, I transitioned into the Graduate Ecologist role, contributing to ecological and BioCondition monitoring, flora and weed surveys, project proposals, and reporting. My academic and field experience over the past five years has built a solid foundation in restoration and conservation ecology, with added skills in soil science, GIS, and data analysis. 

“Ecosure has given me the opportunity to grow both technically and professionally.  
I’m excited to keep expanding my skills while working on projects that support real ecological outcomes.”  

🌿 James O’Shea 

Rotation: Fauna  

Branch/Location: Brisbane 

Background: After completing a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and Ecology in New Zealand, I moved to Australia to immerse myself in its fascinating arachnids, reptiles, and insects. My introduction to bush regeneration came through a council internship, which sparked a passion for ecological restoration and led me to the private sector. I’ve spent the past seven and a half years at Ecosure as bush regenerator where I’ve grown from a fauna enthusiast into someone deeply engaged with plant ecology, thanks to the mentorship of experienced field team members. Their guidance not only expanded my botanical knowledge but also introduced me to First Nations history and artefacts—an area I hadn’t encountered before. Fieldwork remains a highlight, allowing me to work outdoors, witness incredible wildlife, and contribute meaningfully to ecosystem health. 

“Working at Ecosure has broadened my ecological perspective and deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of flora and fauna. I’m excited to keep learning and growing in this field.” 

🌿 Taylor Anderson Warde 

Rotation: Aquatics  

Branch/Location: Gold Coast  

Background: I have worked across various niches within the environmental and resource management sector, contributing to both domestic and international projects throughout my career. I recently joined Ecosure to reconnect with my passion for aquatic ecology. In just a short time, I have been fortunate to contribute to an even broader range of projects than I initially expected with an incredible team of scientists with diverse expertise. The collaborative and knowledgeable environment at Ecosure has made the transition incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited about the ongoing professional development and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the environment. 

“Ecosure has exceeded my expectations—being part of such a passionate and skilled team inspires me every day. I’m looking forward to growing professionally and contributing to projects that truly matter.”  

💬 A Word from a 2nd Year Grad 

“Working at Ecosure has been incredibly rewarding — both as a bush regenerator and now as a graduate. I’ve had the chance to work hands-on with diverse flora in the regeneration team which has given me a kickstart with plant ID skills and a recognition on how ecosystems function. This foundation has seamlessly transitioned into my graduate role, where I’ve been able to expand into aquatic ecology projects, gaining valuable experience in monitoring freshwater systems and understanding the intricate connections between terrestrial and aquatic environments. The team is knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive, which makes the work both meaningful and enjoyable.” 

— Joshua Hambridge, 2nd year as a Graduate Ecologist at Ecosure  

We’re proud to support the next generation of ecologists and can’t wait to see what they achieve. Welcome to the team! 

Published 27/08/25