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Jonica
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Reporter, ABC TV, Catalyst
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Who do you work for?
At the moment, I primarily work for ABC TV as a reporter on the science program Catalyst. I also have my own company Biophilia.
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What does your job involve?
Suggesting and researching stories, filming on location including some work on camera, then following the stories through the editing process.
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What do you like most about your job?
The variety. This job constantly stretches you to your limits and often beyond, but it does mean you are constantly finding out things you never knew about the world. I love researching a fascinating new story, going out on location filming and meeting people you would never normally come across.
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What is the most unusual or fun thing you’ve done in your job?
Throwing myself into the dangerous rip at the south end of Bondi Beach, and then being rescued by surf rescue.
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What inspired you to choose a career in this area?
I wanted to find a way of combining my creative/literature minded side with my science training.
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How did you get to where you are now?
I did a veterinary degree, and then quit practice ten years ago, hoping to find out how to make it as a science journalist. I took a job that was in a veterinary related field, and on the side, started writing science stories and trying to get them broadcast or published. Eventually, I went freelance.
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Who or what has been an inspiration to you?
Robyn Williams, host of the Science Show on ABC Radio National. He passionately believes that science is part of culture, and has all sorts of interesting takes on what that means. He is prepared to give every young aspiring science journalist a go.
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What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
If you want to change your life or career direction, don’t take a sudden plunge, but start doing little things in that direction. Eventually, you know whether change is right or not, and you’ve built up enough contacts and knowledge to make the move.
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What training/qualifications do you have/need?
Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (Hons I), Murdoch University.
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What subjects did you study at school?
Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology, English Literature and History.
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What are your career goals/plans for the future?
I would love to do another major TV series, if possible.
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What career opportunities are there for people in your field?
You have to make you own opportunities in this industry. There are no long term positions – things change so quickly and there is little job security. You have to suit that kind of lifestyle.
$35-45K
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