Spotlight on wildlife at UQ Gatton Open Day

University of Queensland wildlife science graduate Garry Sippel returned to the Gatton Open Day to encourage enthusiasm for wildlife with his live reptile show.

Mr Sippel started his business, Dreamtime Reptiles, in 2007 with the aim of educating the public about reptiles.

“The degree I completed at UQ Gatton has definitely helped in the work I am doing now,” Mr Sippel said.

“I found that my program covered all aspects of working in the wildlife industry, such as conducting wildlife science surveys to the running of a business,” he said.

Through his work with Dreamtime Reptiles, Mr Sippel is dedicated to encouraging more young people to work with animals.

"This is really important as our human population grows because extra pressure is placed on existing wildlife and therefore increasing awareness and involvement is crucial," he said.

“I met a huge number of enthusiastic young people wanting to get involved with wildlife at the Gatton Open Day, which was great to see.”

UQ Gatton Open Day was attended by prospective students interested in studying Agriculture, Agribusiness, Animals and Veterinary Science.

Farrier demonstrations, animal and plant nurseries, sniffer dogs, reptiles and agricultural equipment were just some of the displays on offer. Tours of the residential halls, veterinary science facilities, dairy and the pool and gym ran all day.

For more information on programs available to study at UQ Gatton visit www.uq.edu.au/study.