Weipa’s Simone Slack has been awarded a scholarship through North Queensland Bulk Ports.
WEIPA’S Simone Slack is one of two first-year James Cook University marine science students that will embark on a unique real-world experience as a result of an ongoing partnership with North Queensland Bulk Ports.
Simone and Elijah Kingston have been named recipients of the 2023 NQBP Marine Science Scholarship.
They will be provided with financial assistance throughout their studies, as well as the invaluable opportunity to work alongside researchers and port industry managers.
NQBP acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the port-university partnership had 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.”
Hailing from an idyllic Cape York coastal community, Simone said she was captivated by the ocean from a young age.
“I have been snorkelling and diving since I was about 10 years old,” she said.
“I have always lived in Weipa and the ocean has always been practically just outside my doorstep. I want to learn about the wonders of marine life and get a greater understanding of life underwater.”
Elijah Kingston recently relocated from the Sunshine Coast to Townsville to nurture his passion for Marine Science at JCU. His enthusiasm for the Great Barrier Reef and its extraordinary biodiversity drives his academic journey, which will now be enriched by practical industry experience.
Since 2021 NQBP and JCU have awarded five scholarships to university students undertaking a Bachelor of Marine Science.
