The Team
Board of Directors
Laura Torre-Williams
– Founding Director –
Laura is a conservation biologist, marine educator, and whale researcher, passionate about inspiring people of all ages to care for our oceans and planet.
Her work focuses on humpback whale research along Australia’s east coast, including leading the Gold Coast Newborn Calf Study — gathering vital data to improve protection for these animals and their habitats.
She has worked with cetaceans across Alaska, Hawaii, California, New Zealand, and Australia, and holds a BSc in Environmental Biology and an MSc in Conservation Biology.
Laura believes small actions create big change. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Society for Conservation Biology and is an active member of leading marine science and education organisations.
Professional Memberships:
* Society for Conservation Biology (Oceania)
* New Zealand Environmental Educators Association
* American Cetacean Society / Society for Marine
Mammalogy
* Project Jonah
Janelle Bressow
–
Janelle is an Educator and passionate marine conservationist, working with Deaf/Hard of Hearing Childrens ad communities across Queensland.
She is an accomplished wildlife photographer and leads our community outreach and education programs, sharing knowledge about whale migration, marine life, and conservation. Her work helps bridge the gap between science and the public, encouraging everyone to help protect our oceans and marine wildlife. Janelle brings strong communication and leadership skills, developed through decades of education work and high-level sports coaching. She served as Head Coach of the Australian Deaf Women’s Basketball Team, receiving State and National Coaching Awards, and mentors young leaders. Her photography captures migrating whales and marine life, supporting our research at sea and helping us share the wonder of the ocean with people of all ages.
Janelle is deeply committed to protecting our magnificent marine species and ensuring their safe migration along Australia’s east coast. She is currently furthering her knowledge through Marine Studies, to better support our conservation goals and community engagement.
Sharyn Carnahan
Sharyn is a scientist, educator, and conservation advocate with a PhD in Health Science and a background in environmental research.
Her work combines scientific expertise with community action, supporting field studies including the Gold Coast Newborn Calf Study, turtle monitoring, and platypus conservation. As a Board member, she guides our strategic work to protect whale populations and habitats, fostering partnerships between scientists, policymakers, and local communities.
She brings extensive experience in education, leadership, and project coordination, having held senior roles across research, health, and environmental sectors. Sharyn is deeply committed to building a sustainable future for marine life and inspiring others to protect our natural environment for generations to come.
Tony Taylor
Tony brings extensive experience in project management, operations, and photography, having worked and travelled across many countries.
An avid wildlife photographer and nature lover, he has spent six seasons documenting humpback whales along the Gold Coast. On the Board, he contributes business skills, strategic thinking, and a deep personal passion for marine conservation — helping us expand research, education, and community engagement.
Tony is committed to raising awareness and ensuring future generations can enjoy and protect our incredible marine wildlife. He uses his photography and storytelling to connect people with the ocean, and brings strong governance and planning skills to help guide our organisation’s growth and impact.
Volunteers
Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting research, outreach, and conservation efforts. Their dedication helps us collect data, engage the community, and promote marine awareness.