Torquay local nominated for Seven News Young Achiever Awards

A 29-year-old environmental engineer from Torquay has been placed in the running for the IKON Services Environmental Leadership Award as part of Seven News’ 2019 Young Achiever Awards.

Nominated by RMIT tutor, Associate Professor Oliver Jones, Will McCance said he was pleasantly surprised when he discovered his PhD supervisor and former teacher had secretly entered him to recognise his work in wastewater contamination.

“I had no idea he was nominating me,” said a modest Will.

“I only found out because I received an email about it.

“I remember thinking to myself, ‘what on earth is this?’”

Awarded to a nominee for demonstrating environmental leadership or contributing significantly to a sustainable Victoria, his extensive resume gives reasonable insight into why the student was handpicked by his teacher.

Completing a double degree in environmental science and engineering in 2013, Will now has five years’ experience working as an environmental consultant.

“Funnily enough, when I graduated uni I thought I would work in contaminated land management or land fill design and construction, but soonenough I moved more and more into the water sector, particularly groundwater management and technology,” he said.

Currently undertaking a PhD investigating wastewater contamination, Will’s passion for creating a sustainable world is mirrored in all aspects of his life.

Will volunteers his time at the Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Associated where he sits on the executive committee.

He has also volunteered with Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Club for 10 years and is a member of the Surf Coast Shire’s Environment and Rural Advisory Panel.

In his nomination submission, Associate Professor Oliver Jones described Will as a “self-motivated student” and a “strong leader”.

“It’s a privilege to be nominated,” Will said.

“It helps you stayed motivated and on topic.

“The PhD can be challenging at times, but when something like this happens it helps you to push through and keep aiming high.”

The student will face judging on Wednesday March 6.

Finalists will be presented and winners announce at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner on Friday May 10.