All life on earth began in the ocean. Every day surfers and beach lovers feel the power of the sea, which so many of us are attracted to. It is here where we find the largest creatures on earth: whales. And no other story than the relationship between humans and whales could be more controversial. Only decades ago whales were feared and killed to burn their fat in oil lamps, today many of us simply enjoy watching the majestic animals venturing through our coastal waters. Changing perspectives is the key to understanding. What more life changing could there be than seeing the world through the eyes of a whale? Only then we will understand that the ocean is the source of all life on earth.”

"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever." I didn’t realise how true this quote by Jacques Yves Cousteau was until a few years ago when I first truly discovered the ocean. I learnt how important the ocean is, not just for the incredible array of life that lives in it but also for us. I became devoted to protecting this incredible life source, and vowed to do anything I can to keep it alive and thriving for decades to come. However, it wasn’t until I first locked eyes with an incredible humpback whale that I knew what my life’s purpose was – study these whales, become a voice for these and many other voiceless creatures, and encourage others to do the same. Education and protection of marine life are more important now than ever. I think the best way to encourage conservation is to allow citizens to see what they’re conserving, and fall in love with it, the same way I did only a few years ago."earth: whales. And no other story than the relationship between humans and whales could be more controversial. Only decades ago whales were feared and killed to burn their fat in oil lamps, today many of us simply enjoy watching the majestic animals venturing through our coastal waters. Changing perspectives is the key to understanding. What more life changing could there be than seeing the world through the eyes of a whale? Only then we will understand that the ocean is the source of all life on earth.”

"As the primary life support system on earth, our planet would not be hospitable without the ocean. Having always loved being underwater, my eyes were opened to sea life when, after learning to dive, I undertook marine research projects in both Costa Rica and Borneo. This, combined with my studies of Biological Science at university, is only making me more aware of what wonders lie beneath our oceans, none more so than the humpback whale. Through HHR, I am fascinated on a daily basis to learn just how crucial these majestic creatures are to the oceans' ecosystem. My internship is providing me with an amazing and unique experience to study, understand and protect these ocean giants up close."

"I have always been a bit that yearns for the protection and conservation of our wildlife, particularly that of the sea. The ocean is ultimately our life support, our oxygen mask. being able to contribute towards such critical research for one of the guardians of the sea is an opportunity that I am so grateful to HHR for blessing me with. To be an instigator of change is one of my life passions, and alongside this incredible team we are truly able to make a difference. Anyone can contribute to this research, while  simultaneously interacting with one of the most incredible creatures our earth has to offer."

"I have always been involved in environmental conservation groups and have campaigned for the protection of our land and oceans. Growing up on the Gold Coast my days were spent by the sea with my family. The ocean has always been a place of calm and happiness where the chaotic and busy human society comes to an end. We are so lucky to be living next to such a beautiful marine environment and to witness the yearly migration and the population resurgence of the humpback whale. We are connected to all life on earth and we depend on all other creatures for our survival. By contributing to research and educating others we can create change to ensure the conservation of whales into the future."

"There’s a great deal of wonder and mystery wrapped up with the Humpback Whale vocals, but it’s something which has captivated me since I was a child. Their music is something I love most. These Humpback Whales (known as Wardjam in Yugambeh Language) are considered the Elders of the sea. They follow a song line, an ancient memory code that traces the journeys of ancestral spirits. My ancestors honoured water, they cherished it. I’ve always been a big activist for our planet and everything that calls this place home. It’s my duty to spread awareness and protect our mighty Humpback Whales for all the generations to come!"

"What makes the ocean so special is the unique life it not only holds, but vitally sustains, thus it must be protected at all costs"