Working in the forest ensuring a renewable timber supply for the next generation of Australians sure makes for a satisfying career.
For decades, Forestry Corporation has offered the possibility of this important career path to university graduates, who have completed their studies in the fields of forestry, agriculture, environmental science and natural resources.
The latest graduates working for Forestry Corporation continue this century-old legacy.
Under the 2022/23 graduate program, three successful applicants obtained a permanent role with Forestry Corporation undertaking two years of 'on-the-job' training.
Lydia Kearns is based in Wauchope on the Mid North Coast, Jack Power is based at Bateman's Bay on the South Coast and Justin Yip is working in the Riverina at Tumut.
"I originally grew up in the suburbs of Sydney, however, I always spent much of my free time out in the bush mountain biking, climbing, or trekking," Justin said.
"I always aspired to have an occupation working outdoors but never really took up the opportunity to do so. By the end of 2018, I decided to continue with my tertiary studies and pursue a career change.
Justin enrolled in a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management degree, specialising in Parks, Recreation and Heritage at Charles Sturt University.
"Just before I graduated last year, I began to look for work opportunities and fortunately came across the Forestry Corporation website," he said.
"I found that the Forestry Corporation aligned with my interests and values in land management, environmental conservation, and recreation.
"I was also attracted to the fact that the Forestry Corporation focuses on growing a resource that is both sustainable and produces hundreds of jobs in NSW."
Justin applied for the Graduate Forester position in Forestry Corporation's Soft Woods Division.
"I applied without a second thought. Tumut was my first preference location as this picturesque town gives you the opportunity to follow your outdoors interests right at your front doorstep," he said.
"I am just completing my first rotation over a six-month period within the silviculture division.
"I have enjoyed my time developing my skills with such a friendly, supportive, and energetic team.
"It is a diverse and dynamic role with opportunities to learn field and office-based tasks as well as fire-fighting skills. The most exciting part of this program is the opportunity to gain an in-depth experience in all aspects of the business.
"My next rotation will be working within the Harvesting and Roading division. I understand there are many challenges ahead; however, with such a supportive team, I know I am in good hands."
It's been a similar story for Lydia Kearns, who took up a position in the hardwood division in Wauchope having moved to the Mid North Coast from the Blue Mountains.
"In my last year of studying at the University of Sydney, I was figuring out my next steps, when I saw the graduate program advertised," Lydia said.
"The more I looked into it, the more it lined up with my background and what I wanted to do.
"My degree was in environmental science, ecology and evolutionary biology, so I was very interested in the native forestry industry.
"I have spent a lot of time camping and four-wheel driving in the bush, so was already familiar with State forests and what they can offer.
"Being able to work in the bush is definitely a win. It's the best job in the world!"
"The most exciting part of my week is spending time in the forests and learning bush skills such as advanced driving and species identification."
"My friends and family hear all about it when we are out in the bush – I'm keen to share my newly-acquired knowledge!"
Forestry Corporation's graduate foresters have completed a field trip to the North Coast, which took in a tour of Big River Group's Junction Hill sawmill, near Grafton.
It took the forestry experience full circle for the graduates, seeing first-hand how the sawlogs harvested from the forests, which they help to manage, are produced into world-class timber products.
One such product is Big River Group's new generation, engineered prefinished hardwood flooring, using native hardwood veneer over a plywood core.
This product, specially made on-site by Big River's workforce of 70 employees, is highly sought after around the world as a lucrative quality Australian timber export.
If you know a university student, who is interested in land management, Forestry Corporation will begin fielding applications to the 2023/24 Graduate Program in August.
