NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports has announced the recipients of the 2023 NQBP Marine Science Scholarship.
Two first-year marine science students from James Cook University have been selected to work alongside port industry managers and researchers to better understand marine operations.
Simone Slack and Elijah Kingston will be provided with financial assistance throughout their studies as part of the scholarship.
NQBP acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the port-university partnership has a history of helping budding marine scientists kick-start their careers.
“We’re pleased to welcome Elijah and Simone to our growing community of university students benefiting from the hands-on experience with our port industry environment experts,” Ms Kenny said.
“They’ll gain invaluable insights into the real-world applications of port environmental management on the shores of a World Heritage Area.
“This scholarship not only supports these enthusiastic students but also upholds our commitment to fostering the next generation of marine science professionals.”
Ms Slack, from Weipa, said she has been captivated by the ocean from a young age.
“I have always lived in Weipa and the ocean has always been practically just outside my doorstep,” she said.
“I want to learn about the wonders of marine life and get a greater understanding of life underwater.”
And Mr Kingston, now living in Townsville, is passionate about the Great Barrier Reef and its biodiversity.
Since 2021 NQBP and JCU have awarded five scholarships to university students undertaking a Bachelor of Marine Science.
The scholarship program is part of NQBP’s broader five-year partnership with JCU, where researchers monitor the local marine environment surrounding four ports Weipa, Mackay, Hay Point and Abbot Point.
