How it All Started

Cindy did her Undergraduate in Science (Earth Sciences) at Deakin University Melbourne with Honours in Ecology. Her Honours research focused on one of the first studies to apply microscopic hair structure analysis to endangered avian species from Southeast Asia, including those originating from Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Burma. This work aimed to develop forensic identification techniques to assist in combating illegal wildlife trafficking and to support conservation enforcement. Building upon this foundation, her PhD in Ornithology investigates advanced methods for bird rehabilitation and long-term protection, integrating ecological, physiological, and behavioural perspectives. Her research is driven by a commitment to improving conservation outcomes for threatened bird populations and strengthening the scientific basis for avian rehabilitation practices.

In recent times, she went on to do a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Living and subsequently a Graduate Diploma in Ornithology.