Inaugural prize honours conservation legacy and scientific excellence
A childhood dream of becoming a marine biologist has helped CQUniversity student Evangeline Flack achieve outstanding academic success, earning her the inaugural Capricorn Conservation Council (CCC) Judith Wake Memorial Prize.
Awarded for the first time in 2026, the prize recognises the student who achieves the highest GPA in the Life Science Laboratory unit during the 2025 academic year. The recipient receives a $500 cash prize, a certificate of recognition, a one-year membership with the Capricorn Conservation Council and a mentoring session with the CCC Coordinator.
Currently studying a Bachelor of Science and Environment, Evangeline said she was surprised to learn she had been selected as the inaugural recipient.
"Honestly, I was very shocked to learn I had received this prize. I had not expected to achieve the highest GPA in the unit at all," she said.
"Coming into university straight out of school, I frankly expected not to achieve very well at all, especially since there are a lot of students in my classes with more knowledge and world experience.
"Though quite surprising, it was definitely a great honour to be the first recipient of an award in memory of someone as passionate about the environment as Dr Judith Wake."
A Bundaberg local and 2024 graduate of Bundaberg Christian College, Evangeline said her passion for science began at an early age.
"Ever since I was a child, I've wanted to become a marine biologist, so science was always something that I thought I would pursue," she said.
"From reading field guides and textbooks on whales when I was little to choosing Biology, Chemistry and Physics in high school, science has always been a big part of my life."
While marine biology remains her long-term goal, Evangeline said choosing a Bachelor of Science and Environment allowed her to explore a broader range of opportunities and experiences.
She credits strong foundations developed during her schooling with helping her achieve academic success at university.
"I was fortunate enough to go to a school where there were a lot of opportunities for academic growth and extension, so I think being a part of those programs really helped me develop some necessary skills for achieving well in university," she said.
Evangeline particularly enjoyed the diversity of practical learning experiences offered through Life Science Laboratory.
"We learned to identify insects to the order, dissect cane toads and went in depth into the life cycles of different types of plants, just to name a few," she said.
"I think having a subject that teaches someone a range of different topics, whether practical or more theoretical, is quite cool."
The award honours the legacy of the late Dr Judith Wake, a respected conservationist, scientist, educator, CQUniversity Adjunct Researcher and founding member of the Capricorn Conservation Council.
CCC Coordinator Sophie George said the prize had been established to continue Judith's commitment to education, environmental stewardship and supporting future generations.
"Dr Judith Wake was a passionate conservationist, scientist, educator and dedicated caretaker of the environment," Sophie said.
"She was a strong and courageous advocate who generously shared her knowledge and inspired generations of scientists, ecologists, students and community members to care for the natural world."
Sophie said Judith's influence extended well beyond conservation advocacy.
"Judith embodied honesty, fairness and integrity. She wanted every student to do their best, learn as much as possible and develop a meaningful understanding of science and the environment," she said.
"I hope people remember Judith's extraordinary generosity in sharing her knowledge. She understood the importance of passing knowledge to the next generation so that it remained alive and continued to benefit our communities and environment."
As a CQUniversity Adjunct Researcher and mentor to many students and educators, Dr Wake shared her expertise generously and helped foster a deeper appreciation of science and the natural world across Central Queensland.
According to Sophie, supporting emerging scientists and conservation-minded students reflects both Judith's values and the Council's vision for the future.
"Emerging scientists and conservation-minded students are our future," she said.
"It is our honour to empower, elevate and engage the next generation of scientists and carers of Country. Supporting students reflects Judith's values and CCC's commitment to environmental education, conservation and emerging leadership."
Sophie said the organisation hopes the prize provides recipients with encouragement as they pursue their studies and careers.
"Every student deserves a fair go, a helping hand and recognition for their hard work," she said.
"We hope the prize provides recipients with practical assistance, confidence and encouragement. Most importantly, we hope it reminds them that their dedication to science, conservation and the environment is recognised and valued."
Having already completed her mentoring session with the Council, Evangeline said she was looking forward to developing new connections and opportunities through her membership.
"I learned a lot about possible people I can connect with and experiences I could have with the Council in the coming year," she said.
"A lot of what we talked about could help me a lot in developing my career further as well."
As the inaugural recipient of the Judith Wake Memorial Prize, Evangeline's achievement marks not only a significant personal milestone, but also the beginning of a lasting legacy honouring Dr Wake's contribution to science, conservation and environmental education while supporting future CQUniversity students committed to making a difference.
