My primary areas of expertise are mammals (both Australian native and exotic), ratites and large reptiles. I have a particular passion for carnivores, but I also gain immense pleasure from educating the public about the lesser known and misunderstood species.I began my professional life as an infantry soldier in the Australian Army, contributing 8 years of service in both Reservist and Full-time capacities. These years included training in combat first aid, the full spectrum of infantry equipment. I exited the ADF as a Lance Corporal with one tour of Afghanistan under my belt. I entered the wildlife care and rescue world just in time for the 2019/2020 bushfire season, very quickly becoming an experienced koala rescuer. I remain extremely proud of the high number of animals we, as a team, were able to rescue, rehabilitate and release back into the wild. Early 2020 saw me move to South Africa in order to contribute my extreme passion to the world of African megafauna, focusing on big cats under the tutelage of the venerable Dr P Caldwell at his Old Chapel Veterinary Clinic. With my exposure to some of the planet's most iconic species and the mentoring of some of the world's foremost wildlife professionals, I returned to Australia in early 2021 due to the evolving global situation and family commitments. After a number of months at the outstanding Wauchope Veterinary Clinic as a Veterinary Nursing Assistant, I completed 12 months of a Bachelor of Science (Zoology/Ecology) through JCU as a pathway to Veterinary Science. My current studies will enable me to contribute even more to the wildlife we share this planet with.