My name is Stacey Kelleher and I am just about to start my third year studying Marine Biology at Deakin University in Warrnambool. I chose to do my placement for uni at the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre because I had been there before and loved the center and all of the different programs they offer.

As my first week of placement was during school holidays, the center was really busy; which was great for me because there were a lot of exciting and hands on programs being run that I was able to get involved in. Firstly, Jill (the Marine Education Officer), Shelby (another work experience student) and I took a number of families out to do a Rocky Shore Ramble. We found some amazing things; such as different species of crabs, snails, and even an octopus!

I was also able to take a group out snorkeling at Rose’s Bay. We saw a number of weird and wonderful marine animals such as stingrays, cuttlefish, anemones and much more.

When in the center, I helped maintain the tanks and feed all of the different marine animals. I showed groups the touch tank and talked to them about what sort of species could be found in the local area.

Overall it was a fantastic 2 weeks; I learnt so much from the incredible staff and loved how hands on everything was. I can’t wait to come back for another visit!