Meet the team: Carna Feldtmann, Ecology Consultant
March 19, 2025
News & Insights
Why did you choose your particular career?
Growing up in the small coastal village of Stompneus Bay in South Africa, I was always captivated by the outstanding natural beauty of my hometown.I remember spending hours outside – sunrise to sunset – following crabs along the shore, watching seabirds glide overhead, and fascinated by seaweed and aquatic life in every rock pool. I was endlessly curious about how these ecosystems functioned.
When my family moved to Australia in 2002, my love for the great outdoors only deepened. The landscapes were different, but just as mesmerising – from the rugged Illawarra escarpment and sandstone cliff lines to the pockets of littoral rainforest. Studying environmental science and becoming an ecologist was a natural fit.
Carna Feldtmann
What has your career journey at Niche been like?
From the moment I joined Niche, I knew I was stepping into something special – an organisation that thrives of expertise, collaboration and making a real impact. Every project has been a new adventure, and the journey so far has been fast paced, rewarding and filled with incredible learning moments.
What has been your biggest highlight at Niche?
One of my biggest highlights at Niche has been becoming a CASA-licensed drone pilot to conduct flora and fauna surveys. This is a game changer combining my environmental knowledge with cutting-edge technology to gather critical data. I’ll never forget my first drone survey, watching the live feed from the thermal imagery, capturing insights into koala behaviour deep into a remote pocket of land that would have taken hours to hike to on foot.
What do you love most about working at Niche?
Knowing that my work plays a role in protecting sensitive habitats and securing better environmental outcomes makes all the effort in the field worthwhile. The collaborative spirit at Niche means that no challenge is faced alone – there’s always someone ready to share insights, brainstorm solutions, or simply have a laugh after a long day!
How does Niche help you structure work around your life?
Choice isn’t just a value at Niche – it’s a reality. I’ve been trusted to structure my workload in a way that allows me to be both productive and present in my personal life and work life.
Every decision we make in environmental consulting has a ripple effect – from the reports we write to the advice we deliver to clients, so having the opportunity to work alongside industry experts on some of NSW’s most significant environmental projects, sharpens my skillset in the best way possible.
When you’re not at work, what do you like to do with your time?
I’m happiest when I’m outdoors – whether its bush walking and exploring the extensive trail network on the Illawarra escarpment or watching sunrise from the water.
