Heron Island – An amazing experience for Marine Science

Our time at Heron Island will definitely be a highlight of our high school experience! It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and explore such an untouched and thriving ecosystem. We had the opportunity to go offshore three times, in which we got to see so many amazing organisms, such as black-tip reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, an assortment of reef fish, a diverse range of vibrantly-coloured corals, seahorses, and what felt like a million turtles! Watching hundreds of fresh hatchlings make their way down the beach at sunrise into the crystal clear blue water, as well as watching the mother turtles battle their way up the beach to lay was definitely an unforgettable experience.  

As Year 12 students of marine science and biology, it was so amazing being able to stay at the University of Queensland’s Research Station and be able to interact with these university-grade resources. Having the opportunity to speak to and be surrounded by PhD students, as well as professionals within the marine field, was extremely inspiring as well as they happily shared their passions and interests with us. It definitely broadened our understanding of the study and research options in regard to marine biology. Not to mention that it was really interesting to see class content applied to real-world situations.  

Nowadays, it is such a rare opportunity to visit protected environments such as Heron Island, where there is no light pollution, phone service, abundances of buildings and skyscrapers, large populations of people or even sounds of cars passing by. We were simply indulged with nature, content with a starlit sky, the comfort of the rolling waves, the beauty of sunset and sunrise, as well as the circle of life with the creatures that call Heron Island ‘home’.   

It is safe to say that this experience will hold many cherished memories amongst all the students that attended and we could not be more grateful for this opportunity and Mr Brentnall, Mr Stephens and Ms Tatzenko who all made this trip possible.

Kinta Munro and Gabby Munro,
Year 12 students,
PBC STEM Ambassadors