In February this year, geologist, Dr Tara Djokic joined NSW Resources as an Engagement Officer with the Geological Survey of NSW (GSNSW), supporting the delivery of the NSW Government’s Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy.
Based at the W.B.Clarke Geoscience Centre in Londonderry, Dr Djokic is responsible for developing and promoting the GSNSW education and outreach program facilitating primary, secondary and tertiary student engagement in geoscience.
Tara’s enthusiasm mirrors the theme of this year’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science, an annual day held across the globe to promote the participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
“Across my career I’ve been lucky enough to experience some of Earth’s most stunning landscapes, study rock formations in the Pilbara and even contribute to research informing the search for life on Mars,” she added.
“But what drives me now is sharing those experiences with students, sparking their curiosity and opening the door for them to explore the endless possibilities a career in the geosciences offers.”
It was a walk through New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park - the real-life backdrop for Mount Doom in Peter Jackson’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy – that spurred Tara’s interest in Geoscience.
Returning home with a newfound sense of direction, Tara quit her job as a personal trainer and enrolled at the Macquarie University to study Geology and Palaeontology.
Fast-forward to 2023, and now with several degrees including a PhD, and over a decade of education and outreach experience under her belt, Tara was a Geoscientist studying fossils sites, supervising students, and organising outreach workshops in the Palaeontology Collection at the Australian Museum.
In February 2026, Tara secured the role as an Engagement Officer with the Geological Survey of NSW (GSNSW).
“This is my dream job!” Dr Djokic said when asked about her work history.
“Where else can I combine my love for geology while inspiring and upskilling the next generation of geoscience leaders?” she said.
Visit the International Day of Women and Girls in Science Official Website to learn more about this year’s event on Wednesday 11 February.
