Join the conversation to become an underwater hero at the museum

by Jude Timms on 10 Aug 2015 The Australian National Maritime Museum is calling on eco-warriors, science buffs and ocean lovers to enjoy a lively evening of pop-up discussions about our relationship with the Great Barrier Reef and oceans in a special free after-hours event on Sunday 23 August.

Enter the special underwater themed space for group ‘speed-dating’ with a selection of scientists, explorers, researchers and advocates who are actively making a difference to our marine environments through science, conservation and education. Learn how to contribute to the future of our underwater worlds and be inspired to make a difference. Start a conversation with:

Lloyd Godson – Underwater adventurer

Underwater pioneer Lloyd Godson is a marine scientist, avid science communicator and aquanaut who was named 2007 Australian Geographic Adventurer of the Year. He has explored vast locations including the Mesoamerican Reef off the coast of Belize and Honduras, the Greek Islands and Antarctica and has built habitats to survive underwater.

Laura Wells – Ocean Ambassador

Laura Wells is a model, environmental scientist and eco warrior who is committed to protecting our oceans from marine debris and living a sustainable life. Laura is the founder of Ocean Ambassadors Australia and has produced an environmentally friendly, ocean-inspired swimsuit range in conjunction with US brand, Swimsuits for All.

Dr Adriana Vergés – Marine scientist

Dr Adriana Vergés is a marine scientist and senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales whose work has been featured by the Sydney Morning Herald, National Geographic, ABC and SBS. Dr Vergés is a member of the Centre of Marine Bio-Innovation, the Evolution and Ecology Research Centre and Sydney Institute of Marine Sciences.

Professor Iain McCalman AO – Historian

Professor Iain McCalman AO is a Professorial Research Fellow in history at the University of Sydney and Co-Director of the Sydney Environment Institute. Among his many publications are The Reef: A Passionate History and The Great Barrier Reef in Twelve Extraordinary Tales.

The MC for the evening will be Grace Liley, State Coordinator for the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. Tickets are free and a cash bar will be available. For more information, visit website or call 02 9298 3777.