Ocean Connect
Ocean Connect is a Gold Coast-based, non-advocacy community organisation focused on marine and coastal conservation through education and citizen science. Co-founded by marine biologist Maggie Muurmans and Tim Exley, it serves as a catalyst for environmental action, connecting residents and visitors to local coastal ecosystems. The organization engages with over 7,000 community members annually through educational programs for schools and the public, focusing on key habitats such as mangroves, rocky shores, dunes, and sea grass.
A core component of Ocean Connect is its citizen science initiatives, which include regular sea slug surveys at Burleigh Heads and seagrass monitoring, with data contributing to the Atlas of Living Australia. Led by volunteers, marine scientists, and environmental educators, the group offers activities for all ages, including school holiday programs and guided walks, fostering a deeper understanding of the local environment. They provide a platform for early career marine scientists to gain experience and encourage community members to get involved in protecting local biodiversity. Regular updates on their activities are shared on social media and through events supported by the City of Gold Coast.
Insight CEO, Dr Mark Griffin, is an active diver, photographer, videographer and data scientist with Ocean Connect.