The project officer for the Wabbit Action Group - Silvan performs a key role in the delivery of their community-led blackberry program.

The Wabbit Action Group - Silvan is managing a Victorian Blackberry Taskforce extension project for landholders effected by the pest plant blackberry, in order to raise awareness, to promote best practice management and to encourage communities to voluntarily manage blackberry.

The successful applicant will form a strong working relationship with the Wabbit Action Group- Silvan and various stakeholders including local government, industry and community groups.

Duties

The successful applicant will be required to conduct the following duties:

1. Develop effective partnerships with key stakeholders including agencies, local government etc., communicating key project messages and effectively work towards a common outcome.
2. Map blackberry infestations in the Wabbit Action Group – Silvan target area. (GIS experience highly desirable but not essential)
3. In conjunction with individual landholders develop voluntary 3- year management plans for the control of blackberry on individual properties. (Approximately 20 in total) Provide information to landholders to assist them in implementing best practice blackberry control using expert advice. E.g WONS Blackberry Control Manual, VBT Website and local suppliers.
4. Keep accurate records as detailed by the Victorian Blackberry Taskforce and input this data into the Blackberry Action Data Information System.(BADIS)

Reports to: WAGS committee.

Pre-requisites

• A current driver’s licence and a vehicle, (a four-wheel drive is preferable).
• A computer and mobile phone
• An Australian Business Number
• Professional indemnity insurance
• Proof of current personal liability insurance
• A laptop computer and suitable mapping software as required by the group to fulfil reporting responsibilities eg. Arc Map

Key selection criteria

1. Highly developed interpersonal communication skills, particularly the ability to negotiate outcomes and develop effective partnerships with stakeholders.
2. A demonstrated ability to successfully plan, implement and evaluate projects and an ability to resolve operational service delivery problems.
3. Ability to facilitate information and knowledge sharing by providing relevant information.
4. An ability to use GIS equipment including the use of GIS software to develop maps with infestation points.
5. A demonstrated ability to work alone and be self-motivated.

Other relevant information

• Attendance at after hour’s meetings may be required.
• Is expected to act in an environmentally responsible manner at all times.
• The successful applicant will be required to report to the Wabbit Action Group Silvan monthly.
• An understanding of the Victorian Blackberry Taskforce Strategy would be of benefit.

Specific health and safety requirements

The Wabbit Action Group -Silvan is committed to protecting the health, safety and well-being of its members and contractors. To achieve this, the Wabbit Action Group Silvan strives to ensure that contractors are not permitted to undertake work for which they are not suitably qualified and to take appropriate measures to allow work to be done in a manner which will not put any person at risk related to their health and safety.

The following information is provided to identify health and safety issues specific to this role.

• Required to work alone;
• Lengthy periods of car travel often alone, at night and/or over rough terrain;
• Frequent dealings with members of the public required;