“I want to see the oceans protected and sustainably managed, underpinned by an ecological framework.”
“My superpower is stubbornness & stamina….Success should not always be the prime determiner on why you do things.”
Habitat
Exploring windswept Victorian sandy beaches observing changes to natural environments through space and time.
Habits
Meet Chris, a passionate advocate for marine and coastal conservation with a background in education, environmental advocacy, and communications. Growing up in a small country town, Chris was inspired by his mother’s campaign to save a row of streets trees in front of their house. His love for nature was rekindled during university, connecting with fellow environmental activists who shared his passion.
Fast forward to the late 1990s, Chris made significant contributions to marine conservation at the Victorian National Parks Association. He played an important role in the establishment of a network of marine national parks. He brought in ocean conservation legends like Sylvia Earle, David Belamy and Valerie Taylor to support this work. His work has since expanded to incorporate sustainable seafood and better fisheries management. Chris is all about making decisions based on solid evidence and ensuring the oceans are shared appropriately between conservation and resource use.
Following brainstorming with marine scientists, Chris established a sustainable seafood assessment program at the Australian Conservation Foundation. The Assessment is considered the gold standard by many. The assessment process has unparalleled scientific rigour, independence from industry, consumer focus and commitment to Australia’s unique marine ecosystem, small-scale local fisheries and fisherfolk.
Chris is a master communicator, drawing on his wealth of experience in media, education, and community organising. Universities and environmental groups have soaked up his wisdom in workshops, where he shares tips on weaving environmental education into curriculums and crafting impactful campaigns.
Chris describes himself as adaptable, with a wide range of skills developed through years of advocacy, teaching, and volunteer work. He’s eager to keep making waves in marine conservation, promoting sustainable practices, and inspiring the next generation. His dream is to see lasting improvements in ocean management and the continuation of essential assessment processes through collaboration with researchers, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders.
Honours
Jointly awarded Parks Victoria’s Kookaburra Award
Honorary Fellow at the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security School of Law, University of Wollongong
