We pride ourselves on the quality of our staff who maintain the trust of our clients through high work ethics and relaxed, friendly attitudes. Our team of professionals provide a consistently high standard of work focussed on our clients needs.
Through their direct access to the latest industry information and their ability to interpret government policy and legislation, our staff have developed respected relationships with all levels of key government agencies. As a result, all documentation prepared by McCollum Environmental staff is succinct and technically accurate.
As a member of a professional society, the Mining Industry Consultants Association (MICA), McCollum Environmental is bound by codes of ethics, making us one of the preferred consultants throughout the industry.
Our client relationships are based on trust and our relaxed, friendly attitude ensures that we quickly adapt to company cultures and work environments.
Megan McCollum (AusIMM) – Director
Megan graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of Southern Queensland. Megan has 15 years experience in the mining industry through her employment with the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Mines and Energy. As Principal Environmental Officer with the Department of Mines and Energy, Megan gained an intimate understanding of the complexities and practical application of the legislation, guidelines and policies administered by the (former) Queensland Environmental Protection Agency and the (former) Department of Natural Resources Mines and Water. Megan has worked extensively in the field and has gained the respect and support of key stakeholders throughout Queensland. It is her familiarity with these stakeholders which maintains strong relationships between McCollum Environmental and many key industry representatives.
Paul Tett (AusIMM) - Environmental Manager
Paul has more than 20 years experience as an environmental professional and has worked across Australia including in Tasmania, Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland. Following the completion of a Bachelor of Science degree in 1990, Paul’s environmental career includes 11 years as a mine site environmental professional within various mining operations including Copper, Gold, Tin, Mineral Sands and Coal Industries, and 9 years as a Senior Environmental Consultant focusing on mining and heavy industry. Since joining McCollum Environmental in 2004 Paul has prepared significant project submissions for Mining Tenure Applications, EIS’s, EM Plans, Plans of Operations, EA applications and amendments, Statutory Environmental Audits and Commonwealth Referrals for major mining developments predominatley in the Bowen Basin.
Jerilly Blank (AusIMM, EIANZ (CEnvP)) – Environmental Manager
Jerilly graduated with Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Geography (Environment and Resources and Biophysical) from the University of Queensland. Jerilly’s career commenced with the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency and has since accumulated 14 years experience within the mining and heavy industry sectors. She has complimented her regulatory background with skills in mine site management and subcontractor management, gained through various short term on site positions at operating mines. Jerilly has a wealth of experience with the Queensland mining sector and her practical nature in relation to interpreting Queensland’s legislative and compliance requirements is respected throughout the industry. Jerilly currently manages several high level client projects for new and existing mining and non-mining related activities. Jerilly is extremely skilled in maintaining customer relations continuing our friendly, personable reputation with clients.
Kalya Abbey – Senior Environmental Adviser
Kalya completed a Bachelor of Science (Agriculture) at Charles Sturt University in 2006 majoring in land and water resource management. Kalya joined McCollum Environmental in 2008, from which time she has gained considerable experience in environmental approval and impact assessment management, tenure management and the direction of cultural heritage processes. Through her project experience, Kalya has developed relationships with various government agencies, construction, mining and heavy industry stakeholders, land managers, community groups and Aboriginal parties. Kalya has skills in mine site management and subcontractor management, gained through various short term on site positions at operating mines and whilst gathering baseline data in survey work. Kalya has well developed facilitation and project management skills and currently manages a number of high level projects in the McCollum Environmental portfolio working with clients, regulators and stakeholders and supervising project teams.
Sarah Hunyadi – Environmental Adviser
Sarah graduated with an Honours Degree in Pharmaceutical Science from Monash University in Melbourne in 2007. Sarah joined the McCollum Environmental team in 2011, during which time she has gained valuable experience in conducting environmental audits, negotiating environmental approvals, tenure management and Cultural Heritage processes. Sarah has been involved with Landholder liaison and negotiation for several clients in the McCollum Environmental portfolio and has a sound knowledge of the current Queensland legislation land access processes. With a strong work ethic and excellent communication skills, Sarah is continuing to develop solid working relationships with government agencies, mining and heavy industry stakeholders and Aboriginal parties.
Tom Kasauskas- Environmental Officer
Tom completed an Urban and Regional Planning degree at the University of South Australia, majoring in Environmental Planning and graduating with Honours in 2009. Tom’s Honours thesis focused on the adaptation of coastal communities to climate change and addressed the challenges of community resettlement in developing countries. Prior to commencing work with McCollum Environmental in 2011, Tom was employed as a Graduate Town Planner where he gained experience in assisting clients to obtain development approvals. Tom has developed strong customer service and communication skills through previous employment in the retail sector and he enjoys using these to meet the needs of clients.
Martin Aisthorpe – Environmental Officer
Martin has recently joined the McCollum Environmental Management Services team as a new graduate. In 2010, Martin graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Ecology and Conservation from James Cook University. Martin’s degree focused on tropical and sub-tropical land management and species conservation. Additional studies at the National University of Malaysia in 2010 provided him with an international view on land management. Through past employment, Martin has well developed customer liaison and service skills. Martin hopes to gain valuable experience for his professional career through working with McCollum Environmental.
Tanya Chipperfield – Administration
Tanya has extensive experience in administrative work in a number of different organisations including private companies and local councils. Her warm personal qualities and helpful nature affords a bright and friendly first point of contact for the McCollum Environmental office. Tanya provides valuable administrative support to the entire McCollum Environmental team. Her dedication, meticulousness and ability to focus on the task at hand ensures that all staff needs are met and our clients are provided with a superior level of service.
Danielle Starr – Administration Officer
Danielle has recently joined our growing team at McCollum Environmental to provide valuable administrative support to the rest of the team. Danielle has four years experience in both administrative and accounts roles. Danielle has a professional approach to the workplace with excellent prioritisation and organisational skills. Danielle brings with her a bright and friendly personality and is an honest and reliable team member. Her precision and diligence to her work ensures all staff requirements are met and our clients are provided with an exceptional level of service.
Melanie Bourke – Senior Environmental Adviser
Melanie completed a Bachelor of Science in 2003 and is currently furthering her studies with a Masters Degree in Environmental Management through the University of Central Queensland. Her studies have focused on environmental management systems, resource management and environmental auditing processes. Melanie started with McCollum Environmental in 2009 and has since gained considerable experience in the areas of environmental impact assessment, approvals and cultural heritage management. Melanie possesses exceptional project management, client service and organisational skills, a high work ethic and meticulous attention to detail. Melanie has considerable project experience including the development of Environmental Impact Statements for major mining projects, through which she has developed a strong rapport with major industry clients and government agencies. Melanie is currently managing a number of high profile projects in the McCollum Environmental portfolio and continues to expand on her experience to deliver exceptional results for her clients.
Megan Edward – Environmental Adviser
Megan graduated with an honours degree in Environmental Science (Ecology) from the University of Queensland in 2007. For the honours component of her degree, Megan completed a research project which examined the potential effects of various disturbances on a mound springs ecosystem located in arid Australia. Megan joined McCollum Environmental in 2009, coming from a customer service background. These skills have assisted Megan in dealing with MEMS varied clientele. During her time with McCollum Environmental, Megan has developed technical skills in GIS mapping, data management and emissions reporting which have brought an added component to management of our projects. With a high level of motivation and exceptional attention to detail, Megan is continuing to expand her project experience in the areas of key environmental documentation development, subcontractor management and client liaison.
Jennifer Marusich – Environmental Officer
Jennifer joined the McCollum Environmental team in November 2011 as a new and energetic graduate. Jennifer graduated with honours in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Tufts University, located in Boston, Massachusetts USA. While completing her tertiary education, Jennifer entered a year-long government internship with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection where she focused on greenhouse gas emission reporting and verification processes. Jennifer undertook additional studies at the University of Queensland in 2009 focusing on Australian history, culture and environment, through which she gained insight into Australia’s environmental management considerations including the unique environmental setting and diverse range of ecosystems. Jennifer possesses exceptional interpersonal and communication skills gained through her government and scientific appointments, as well as through various administrative positions held whilst studying. Jennifer is continually building her knowledge of environmental management in the mining and heavy industry sectors, and with her diverse Australian and international experiences, Jennifer makes a valuable contribution to the MEMS team.
Sarah Mowat – Environmental Officer
Sarah completed a Bachelor of Science with a major in Geographical Science from the University of Queensland in 2011. Sarah’s studies included an understanding of Australian environments and catchment management. Sarah joined the McCollum Environmental Management Services team in January 2012 and is enthusiastic and eager to learn. Working for several years in both customer service and store services positions, Sarah has gained excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Both university and past work experiences have meant she possesses strong time management and organisational skills which will make her a valuable addition to the MEMS team.
Emma Szwedzinski - Environmental Adviser
Emma completed her Bachelor of Environmental Science, with a major in Ecology and Conservation Biology from Griffith University in 2009. Her previous position as a graduate environmental scientist has given her experience in assisting with groundwater monitoring and reporting, water quality management plans and the implementation of environmental management plans. Emma has also gained experience in anlaysing soils for mammal tracking mediums and worked on the Dust Watch Project for the Australian Federal Government. Emma also has experience in revegetation works as part of a dune stabilisation project. Emma is continually building her knowledge in the environment and resources sector to further develop her skills obtained from previous employment, academic studies and practical experience.
Jill Rashleigh – Administration Officer
Jill joined the McCollum Environmental team in 2010 bringing with her ten years experience in administration and managerial roles. Jill’s experience has enabled her to develop a suite of skills including the ability to deal with a wide range of office management responsibilities and client services. Jill’s strong communication skills ensure clients feel comfortable that all enquires are directed efficiently to address their needs. Jill has a vibrant yet professional personality, and is the first point of contact in the Brisbane office. Jill’s attention to detail, hard work ethic and determination ensure all clients are provided an exceptional level of service.
Ngaire Tranter – Senior Environmental Adviser
Ngaire obtained a Bachelor of Environmental Science from Central Queensland University. She is currently undertaking post graduate study in the form of a Master of Project Management through the University of Southern Queensland. Ngaire has been with the McCollum Environmental since February 2008 and has worked with clients throughout the Bowen and Galilee Basin areas focussing on environmental approvals, cultural heritage and tenure management. Ngaire has over ten years’ experience in customer service roles and has gained expertise in assessing client needs and providing positive outcomes for all involved. Ngaire’s background in finance has ensured that she is adept at conducting internal audits and has effective analytical thinking and reporting skills. These skills, in conjunction with her passion for project management, enable Ngaire to create effective solutions for any environmental need.
