A ground-breaking soil science initiative is helping to cultivate the next generation of environmental professionals while honouring both scientific and traditional approaches to land management.
The 2025 Queensland Soil Science Graduate Program is a 12-month initiative supporting the development of early-career soil scientists and rangers. Co-ordinated by Rachel Cavallo from the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG), the program offers graduates immersive experiences in the lab, in the field, and through professional networks.
The program is a partnership between the Queensland Government and the state’s NRM sector, with each graduate working at both a state department and a regional NRM organisation.
This year’s participants—Jessica Cook, Mali Eagle and Rebecca Reeves—have already taken part in soil sampling and land assessments at multiple locations, along with laboratory training at the Chemistry Centre located at the Ecosciences Precinct in Brisbane. These experiences have deepened their understanding of soil classification, chemistry, and best practices in field-to-lab processes.
Jessica, based with Healthy Land & Water and the Department of the Environment, Tourism Science and Innovation, said the program has been “incredibly enriching”, particularly in expanding her knowledge of the Australian Soil Classification system.
Mali, hosted by Gulf Savannah NRM and the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development, highlighted the benefit of shadowing laboratory chemists, while Rebecca, working as a Soil Science Ranger with BMRG and the Department of Primary Industries, noted the value of learning directly from experts in both technical and collaborative environments.
The cohort has also participated in key industry workshops and forums, including Soil Science Australia’s Back to Basics training and BMRG’s Empowering Adaptive Graziers in the Burnett Mary. These sessions, combined with ongoing mentoring and networking opportunities, are helping the graduates prepare for completing Soil Science Australia’s Registered Soil Science Practitioner qualification.
Rachel said she is proud of the graduates’ early progress and the program’s ability to offer a rich and holistic learning experience.
“This program is about more than just technical training—it’s about fostering confidence, capability, and cultural awareness in our future soil professionals. It’s exciting to see Jessica, Mali and Rebecca thrive in such a short time,” she said.
The graduate program supports the National Soil Action Plan (NSAP) in its implementation of Priority Action 4—development of the soil workforce and capabilities—and aligns with Australia’s National Soil Strategy by promoting soil health, fostering innovation, and integrating traditional and scientific knowledge.
Chris Norman, CEO of NRM Regions Queensland, welcomed the new graduates, who will also contribute to the delivery of the National Soil Monitoring Program, a key initiative of the NSAP.
“Over the next three years, Australia’s NRM sector will be helping to collect soil samples from up to 3000 sites right across the country. Thanks to funding from the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust, this data will help all stakeholders make better, evidence-based decisions to improve soil health—and build a consistent national approach to how we measure, monitor, map and share information about our soils,” he said.
All three graduates are already well on their way to becoming Registered Soil Practitioners, building the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to contribute meaningfully to the stewardship of Australia’s most vital natural resource: its soil.
– Article by Burnett Mary Regional Group.
