Industry sceptics told Violet she'd rarely work out in the field, but she's already proving them wrong

Violet Marriott knew at a young age she wanted to work outdoors. Her dream as a child was to run her own animal sanctuary for endangered wildlife.

This passion for the environment led her to wanting a career in helping care for the planet. But like many young nature enthusiasts, she was told a leap of faith would only land her in an office chair.

Determined to fight for her career choice, even though she knew it would be hard to break into the industry, Violet decided to pursue a degree in environmental science at the University of Canberra (UC).

“I love field work. It’s the reason I wanted to do this job,” she says.

“I’m definitely not built to spend every day in the office, so being able to work out in nature more than most people is a dream come true.

“Getting to where I am now required plenty of determination and a bit of good timing. I spent weeks on placement, worked casually as a weekend ranger and helped with various projects when needed, before I finally landed a full-time opportunity at the end of 2022.”

These days Violet can usually be found out and about with the Brindabella mountains as her backdrop, working hard as a rehabilitation and reporting officer for Ginninderry Conservation Trust.

Every day brings something new and she loves the learning aspect of her job. She has been fortunate enough to work with and learn about fascinating species of plants and animals, including Blue Devil grass and the Pink-tailed Worm-lizard.

Violet has also been involved in engagement programs run by the trust and its partners, including monthly guided walks and community events held throughout the year.

“A huge part of my role is educating the community – I recently got to take 20 women out on a guided walk as part of the Women in Nature program organised by Landcare ACT,” she says.

“We work to protect Box Gum Woodlands and Natural Temperate Grasslands, which are both critically endangered ecosystems in the ACT.

“I have also been fortunate enough to be part of woodland bird monitoring through Canberra Birds (Canberra Ornithologists Group) where we engage with vulnerable bird species in the conservation corridor including the Superb Parrot, Scarlet Robin and White-winged Triller.”

Violet’s story is a fortunate one, but she recognises not all graduates share her success when looking for field-based jobs.

“Honestly, it’s really hard out there for young conservationists and students wanting to get into the environmental science field,” she says.

“It’s especially difficult to break into the industry with a paid role. Many graduates like me have to volunteer their time for a lot longer before they can earn a steady wage doing what they love, which I think turns away a lot of really talented, hard-working people that would benefit our industry with their work.”

Violet says advocating for more paid entry-level positions is crucial because they give the next generation a chance to train up and build strong relationships with their peers, who are just as passionate about everything the natural environment has to offer.

It’s why an operation such as the Ginninderry Conservation Trust, which receives funding from a percentage of the Ginninderry land sales (a joint venture with the Suburban Land Agency), is so important.

To those who share her love for the land and looking for a similar role, Violet says don’t be afraid to give it your all.

“If you have the means, get out there and volunteer. Meet as many people as you can and make it clear this is where you want to be.

“This kind of work is absolutely crucial and incredibly fulfilling. When you look after the land, it looks after you.

“Taking care of our environment and its many vital ecosystems is more important than ever. So if you have the aptitude and the drive to succeed, you should absolutely go for it.”

Want to explore a vibrant, sustainable community that inspires a new way of living? Visit Ginninderry for more information.

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