Whether its spending time in the garden, hiking on a hinterland trail or checking out the rockpools at low tide I love being outdoors in the natural environment. It is central to my wellbeing. Much of my career has focused on helping others to also experience this connection and love. I currently live and work on Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country and I feel privileged to have learnt so much from First Nations custodians, the original interpreters of this landscape.

What was the start of your interpretation journey?
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Conservation Biology from the University of Queensland and a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from the University of Southern Queensland. This combination of science and education has shaped my approach to making complex environmental concepts accessible and engaging.

What does interpretation mean to you?
Interpretation is about creating meaningful experiences that spark curiosity and emotional connection. In the context I work in, I see interpretation as being crucial to help people understand, value, and care for the natural world.

When and how did you start working in interpretation?
My journey began over 20 years ago delivering environmental education programs for schools and communities. Over time, I moved into more interpretation focused roles, planning exhibitions, delivering and coordinating guided walk programs, and crafting interpretive trails. I now have the privilege of working across the Sunshine Coast Council’s three Environmental Visitor Centres. The centres showcase diverse environments including subtropical rainforest at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, eucalypt woodland at Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden and tidal wetlands at Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary. I work with an amazing team of staff and volunteers on a very diverse range of projects from citizen science explorations to audio trails.

What is your favourite interpretive project to date and why?
The Rainforest Discovery Centre at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve features a different exhibition every year. While it can be intensive developing a new interpretive theme and associated displays and experiences every year it provides our team with a wonderful opportunity to collaborate, be creative and try new ideas. Our current exhibition, Stories from the Forest has included a number of opportunities for visitors to share their ‘stories’ from the forest with us. Visitors can leave a postcard on the stories wall, record an audio message or write a card to the forest. Our visitors have loved sharing their heartfelt connections to the forest.

What role does Interpretation have in the world today?
In a world facing many challenges, good interpretation is vital. It helps people understand complex issues and information, fosters empathy, and encourages curiosity and stewardship. As interpreters we have our work cut out for us to compete for our visitor’s attention, but I think we are up to the challenge.