My name is Christie-Lee Fletcher and I am currently studying Tourism at Bega Tafe. In order to gain experience in the tourism industry I have chosen to complete a two week work placement at the Eden Marine Discovery Centre. I have discovered some incredible things about the local marine life and I now have a new found appreciation for environmental conservation.

The centre is a great place for people of all ages to learn all things marine in a fun and interactive way. I was able to participate in school holiday activities such as painting Marine Magnets and feeding the fish. The exhibits are extremely informative and taught me a lot about the threats that are putting pressure on several marine species due to human interference.

One of my favourite things to do was guide groups through the Rocky Shore Rambles where I learnt how to detect all sorts of camouflaged marine life including the pincushion starfish and the elephant snail, and we were lucky enough to spot an octopus!

I have learnt so much about the underwater world from the super friendly staff and I think I will definitely volunteer here again once I finish school. It is a fantastic place to have fun and discover amazing things and I highly recommend it to anyone thinking of either volunteering or planning to visit.

TAFE student Christie-Lee at the completion of her two weeks work placement at the SCMDC