Training Course Overview

Our Goal

By approaching wildlife conservation as part of a broad ecological system, we provide experiences that cannot be found in Japan, exposing students to marsupials and monotremes, improving their practical knowledge of wildlife protection, rescue, treatment and rehabilitation, and educating about the subtropical ocean environment, its diversity and its conservation. This is all underpinned by prompting students to consider what they can do to better co-exist with nature. We also aim to teach skills required for students to live overseas, such as basic local knowledge and English.

Location

Queensland, Australia

Facilities (please consult the partners/facilities)

Queensland Department of Environment and Science facilities (e.g. David Fleay Wildlife Park)

UQ VETS (University of Queensland Animal Hospital)

University of Queensland Moreton Bay Research Station

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Currumbin Wildlife Hospital

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation and Education Association

Redland City Environmental Protection facilities (Redland City Endangered Species Centre)

About the Courses

Introductory Course

Conducted at David Fleay Wildlife Park (a Queensland government facility) and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the introductory course covers the basics of wildlife protection and husbandry, as well as, providing the opportunity to learn about the anatomy and ecology of unique and rare Australian animals (e.g. marsupials, monotremes) not normally accessible to students in Japan. We will also explore the eucalyptus forests, essential for Australian wildlife, learn about them and participate in forestation. A tour of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSCPA) facility at Wacol is also featured to teach students about the welfare of many different types of animals (pets, livestock, wildlife). Kayaking down the Currumbin River provides the students with a chance to observe the animals that inhabit the river environment and examine how people and animals co-exist in the region. We also encourage students to use and revise their English skills throughout the course.

Applied Course

The applied course examines wildlife in the context of their ocean and land environments, upskilling students’ techniques and knowledge through a range of practical activities. Partnering with one of Australia’s most prestigious universities, the University of Queensland, we explore the ocean environment, the life it holds and the efforts to protect the ecosystem through hands-on activities at the University of Queensland Morton Bay Research Centre on North Stradbroke Island in Moreton Bay. Placement at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary provides students with the opportunity to explore the unique land animals of Australia and conservation efforts for them, as well as the importance of proper care, enrichment and prophylactic management of zoo animals. Students also spend time at the Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation and Education Association to learn about the care and rehabilitation injured wild animals receive following their treatment and prior to their reintroduction into the wild. 

Clinical Course

The clinical course provides specialist practical training for the care (rescue, rehabilitation, husbandry) of Australia’s unique animal population (marsupials, monotremes, birds, reptiles, amphibians) under the guidance of Australian Veterinary Association registered veterinarians and veterinary nurses at one of the world’s best wildlife hospitals. There are unique opportunities for dissection and/or clinical autopsy of distinctive Australian animals that have died or have been euthanised, such as marsupials (e.g. koalas), that is not available in Japan. In addition, from 2023, we have newly incorporated placements to experience radiotracking of koalas. Students also visit the Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation and Education Association to learn husbandry of young animals whose parents have died in road accidents, learning the skills to care for them.

Note: Lectures will mostly be in English; however, if necessary, interpretation is  provided for those that may not be confident in their English skills, so please do not worry if this is you.

Eligibility

Introductory Course

This course is recommended for those without much background knowledge of or experience with wildlife, and/or those with an interest in wildlife or environmental conservation (from the general public to veterinarians, veterinary nurses, students of animal and environmental studies at vocational schools, university students and students of non-related areas). If you do have a background and would still like to participate, please contact the AJWCEF office with any queries.

Applied Course

This course is for those who have completed the introductory course along with those who have similar or more than basic knowledge of wildlife and environmental conservation and would like to further their knowledge on these topics.

Clinical Course

This course is for those who have completed the introductory or applied courses along with those who have similar or more knowledge/experience than that covered in the aforementioned courses and would like to further their knowledge on wildlife clinical practice, rescue and rehabilitation.

Note: AJWCEF members will get priority during the application process. It is possible to apply for a training course and to become an AJWCEF member simultaneously; these applicants will be treated as AJWCEF members.

Accommodation and Food

 Accommodation with a kitchen and living area will be provided. Some venues will have pools and tennis courts and can be used during free time. Meals are the participants’ responsibility, bar welcome and farewell parties. Cost of food and drink is not included in the training course fee. With current Australian prices, we estimate that 350 AUD will be sufficient for ten days. We do this to deepen the experience of living in Australia for the students. Shopping provides an excellent opportunity for students to use their English.

However, meals may be catered when on placement at the Moreton Bay Research Centre. Please see the course details for more information.

Insurance

Prior to the training course, please purchase appropriate travel insurance that includes cover for injuries and illnesses. AJWCEF will not be responsible for accidents that occur during free time or  that are attributable to   the actions and behavior of the person in question.

Health and Vaccinations

Any health problems or allergies you may have must be communicated at the time of application. Please ensure you are vaccinated against tetanus at least two weeks prior to the start of the course.

2025 Training Course Dates

*Dates and course content may be subject to change

Questions?
If you have any questions or queries please contact head office (training@ajwcef.org)

Australia Japan Wildlife Conservation and Education Foundation

Home Office
PO Box 1362
Kenmore, Queensland 4069 Australia
Phone: +61 7 3195-4749
E-mail: training@ajwcef.org
Web site: www.ajwcef.org

Japan Office (Only for urgent matters)
Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University Department of Veterinary Science
Tajima Takeshi (lecturer)
1-7-1 Kyonan, Mushashino, Tokyo
Phone: 0422314151 (extension 4389)
Email: t-tajima@nvlu.ac.jp