Nature Conservation Margaret River Region has welcomed specialist volunteer Julieta Mendenson to its growing advocacy team, bringing expertise in forensic investigation and environmental law to its work protecting the region’s natural environment.
Nature Conservation’s volunteer advocacy team works behind the scenes to monitor planning proposals, environmental issues and changes to government policy and legislation. The team researches potential environmental impacts, prepares evidence-based submissions and engages with government agencies, decision-makers and proponents to advocate for better outcomes for the region’s natural environment.
Julieta is a criminalistics graduate from Argentina with a background in forensic science, investigation and law, and is now living in Margaret River. She has also worked in anti-money laundering and financial crime prevention, developing skills in investigation, risk assessment and compliance. She is currently completing a Diploma in Environmental Law and Management.
During her studies, Julieta developed a particular interest in environmental issues, focusing her thesis on the use of microscopic algae as biological indicators of water pollution and their potential use as evidence in environmental investigations.
A passion for our unique environment
Since moving to Margaret River, Julieta said she has developed a strong appreciation for the region’s unique natural environment.
“I have always been interested in environmental protection, and the biodiversity of the region, from its unique flora to its wildlife, is something that really stands out to me,” she said. “Living here has made me realise even more how special these environments are and how important it is to protect them.”
Julieta said she was attracted to Nature Conservation’s community-based approach and the opportunity to contribute her skills while learning more about Australia’s environmental and legal systems. “I also really value contributing to and feeling part of the place where I live, and I see volunteering with Nature Conservation as a meaningful way to contribute to the Margaret River community while learning from the team and sharing my own skills and experience,” she said.
Advocacy team continues to grow
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region chair Ann Ward said Julieta was an excellent addition to an advocacy team that was continuing to grow in expertise and experience.
“Advocacy is not always the most visible part of what we do, but it is incredibly important,” she said. “A lot of the work happens quietly in the background – reading planning documents, understanding legislation, examining environmental impacts and working out where we can make a constructive difference.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have people willing to volunteer their professional skills and experience for the benefit of our natural environment. Bringing people with different backgrounds and expertise into the team makes our advocacy stronger, and the team is going from strength to strength.”
Julieta’s arrival adds another layer of specialist expertise to the volunteer team as Nature Conservation continues to build its capacity to respond to environmental issues affecting the Margaret River region.