Alistair Melzer is an ecologist who has been studying koalas since 1988. He has
been in Central Queensland since 1990 and at Central Queensland University since
1994.
Alistair Melzer is an ecologist who has been studying koalas since 1988. He has
been in Central Queensland since 1990 and at Central Queensland University since
1994.
Alistair’s work on the ecology of koalas (ranging behavior, habitat selection, morphological variation, effects of climate and conservation) has resulted in his being asked to provide expert advice on koala management (NSW State Forests) and conservation (forum for the conservation of the koala, international conference of the Society for Conservation Biology) as well as working with local community and industry.
His
work in Central Queensland has been possible through strong community support
(volunteer time and money) over the last 10 years.
In 1994 Alistair was awarded his PhD and commenced work at Central Queensland University on a range of industrial ecology projects. Since then the koala research has continued on a part time basis with the ongoing assistance of the Central Queensland Koala Volunteers.
When the Koala Research Centre was jointly established by the Rockhampton City Council, the Department of Environment and Heritage and Central Queensland University, Alistair became the Principal Research Officer.
Without Alistair the Central Queensland koalas would still be waiting for someone to tell their story.