About Me
I am a senior lecturer in marine science and professional practice as well as the course director for the Bachelor of Marine Science degree at Deakin University. My marine education background and expertise translates into my research interest focusing on the extent to which ocean literacy is being taught in schools across Australia and exploring innovative methods to promote ocean literacy through research, education and engagement. I actively promote ocean literacy through regular appearances on radio and I have recently co-authored a children’s book called The Great Southern Reef (by Paul Venzo, Prue Francis; illustrated by Cate James). I also have a research interest in the growing seaweed industry in Australia, where I am utilising the state-of-the-art flow-through seawater aquarium systems at Deakin’s Queenscliff Marine Science Centre to explore optimisation of cultivation techniques for local seaweed species for farming and restoration purposes.
I would like to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and sea on which I conduct my research. I pay my respect to their Elders and Ancestors for allowing me to conduct my research on their land and sea, and acknowledge their continuing connection to this beautiful Country. I thank them for their care and custodianship over many thousands of years.
