From Peru to Eyre Peninsula: How Claudia is caring for a new country and community

“Some ocean cliffs, dry woodlands, and grasslands here are remarkably reminiscent of my home in Peru,” says Claudia. “And as a fun fact: South America is also home to many small marsupial species!” 

Claudia left Peru in 2022 with a working visa, a few savings, an intermediate level of English and a fascination with Australia’s nature and wildlife. 

She was ready for a new adventure after completing a degree in Forest Science and Natural Resources in Peru and kick-starting her career in biodiversity conservation.

Today, Claudia is a Landscape Officer in Cleve with the Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board, where she’s thankful for her diverse role and no two days are the same. 

One day she’s surveying pest plant populations or updating action plans, the next she’s assisting farmers with water testing, supplying fox baits, or supporting local revegetation and grassroot grants projects with schools and community groups. 

For Claudia, this blend of fieldwork, planning and community engagement is what makes the role meaningful. 

“Communities here rely deeply on a healthy environment,” she says. 

“By tackling issues such as pest infestations, soil degradation, water management challenges, and biodiversity loss, we help create healthier landscapes that are more resilient to harsh weather, provide sustainable resources for future generations, and ultimately support greater productivity for our communities.” 

Closest to her heart is sharing her passion with young minds and inspiring the next generation to become change-makers in their own communities. 

“Giving back to the land that has welcomed me and is now my home – where my future children will grow up – is incredibly meaningful to me,” she says. 

“Even sparking curiosity and wonder in a single student makes all my efforts worthwhile.” 

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If you’re looking for meaningful work with one of SA’s landscape boards, visit iworkfor.sa.gov.au for the latest job opportunities. 

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