Introducing New Koala Conservation Officer: Thaw Ni Ni Zaw

19th Aug 2025

Southern New England Landcare is thrilled to welcome Thaw Ni Ni Zaw as the new Koala Conservation Officer for the Northern Tablelands.
Originally from the dry zone near Mandalay, Myanmar, Thaw Ni brings a wealth of knowledge in agriculture, environmental science, and community-based conservation.
“I’ve always been passionate about biodiversity and working closely with communities,” says Thaw Ni. “This role is a perfect fit for my background in agricultural and environmental science, and my experience engaging with farmers and local groups.”
Thaw Ni holds a Bachelor of Agriculture and a Master of Horticulture from Yezin Agricultural University. Her postgraduate research focused on traditional wild vegetable use among remote ethnic communities in Myanmar.
Since 2016, she has worked on international agricultural research projects led by the University of New England and funded by ACIAR, including roles as Research Associate and Project Coordinator. Her work in Myanmar and Indonesia has spanned rural livelihoods, gender analysis, farming systems, and participatory extension.
Awarded an Australia Awards Scholarship in 2023, Thaw Ni recently completed a Master of Environmental Science and Management at UNE. Her thesis explored the cultural significance of Indigenous plants in the Gwydir Wetlands.
Thaw Ni is no stranger to Landcare, having volunteered with Southern New England Landcare for the past year on koala conservation fieldwork. She also contributes to the N.C.W. Beadle Herbarium, honing her skills in plant identification and ecological monitoring.
Now based in Armidale and applying for permanent residency, Thaw Ni is eager to support local landholders and communities in protecting koalas.
“I love the small-town feel, the nature, and the national parks,” she says. “Landcare is such a respected organisation, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Going strong for 100 years

Phone	(02) 6779 2347
Email	Contact Us
Social

Introducing New Koala Conservation Officer: Thaw Ni Ni Zaw

Menu

News

Contact