Deb Cahill MEIANZ  Environment and Sustainability Officer | Rottnest Island (Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions)

What are your qualifications?

I’ve studied Environmental Management, Design (Landscape Architecture) and Management. I’m considering beginning my Masters in Protected Area Management next year. 

What do you do?

I juggle sustainability projects and systems on Rottnest Island including energy, water, waste, heritage, chemicals, procurement, emissions and management systems.

Best aspect of your work?

Sunsets - and knowing that hundreds of thousands of people enjoy the outcomes of my team doing a great job (even if they don’t think about what we do).

How did you get there?

I grew up on an Island in the Kimberley so I guess I was always going to return to one. I’ve worked in resources for about 15 years and Rottnest seemed to need a little bit of all the projects I’ve worked on before.

Biggest environmental concern?

How we, as scientists, can communicate our work better to the general public. I feel no matter what our technical focus is, we need to improve our communication in order to get the public engaged.  

How and why did you get involved in the EIANZ?

Because we can get so isolated in our own sites and projects, it’s great to be involved in the wider industry and realise you’re part of a community of change makers.