Meet Daydream Island Resort’s resident marine biologists

Yes, you read that headline correctly. Daydream Island has got two resident marine biologists and we’re sure they’re just as excited about the resort’s grand reopening as we are.

Slotted in to reopen from 10 April, the 4.5-star resort has just undergone two years and $100 million worth of refurbishments, including their iconic Living Reef.

Home to over 100 species of marine life, the Living Reef is a living, man-made coral lagoon that wraps around the resort’s central building.

Louise Kirk, marine biologist and Living Reef Supervisor, joined Daydream Island Resort four and a half years ago.

With a background in education, Kirk is passionate about sharing her skills and knowledge with guests through the resort’s many educational programs.

“Every time you go underwater you see something new and exciting. I feel very lucky to be at the forefront in educating people about the marine world,” she said.

“I’m a strong believer that education creates an understanding and appreciation amongst people. By making people aware of how the ocean works and its inhabitants’ people are more likely to care for it. Education is the most effective way to conserve our oceans.”

Kirk works alongside Johnny Gaskell, Living Reef Manager and another marine biologist at the resort. He says the hardest part of being a marine biologist is finishing up for the day.

“I can walk out of my house and jump straight into the water and see so much diversity… Every time you get in the water, there is a chance you will witness something that no one else has ever seen, true adventure,” Gaskell said.

Daydream Island will relaunch in April, unveiling a new look, premium resort. In line with the relaunch, Daydream Island have announced Lincoln Lewis as an ambassador. Photo by The Photo Pitch

Besides his daily routine of protecting and feeding the inhabitants of the Living Reef, including feeding Daydream Island’s 18-year-old resident stingray, Pikelet, Gaskell is also an ambassador for Tourism & Events Queensland.

And he’s the mastermind behind the new educational offerings that will be available when the Living Reef relaunches, including designing a new lagoon to represent the habitats of the Whitsundays and the new Underwater Observatory.

As an avid supporter of sustainability, Gaskell is constantly educating guests on ways they can contribute to the conservation of marine life.

“Say no to single-use plastics and where possible avoid power hungry luxuries,” he suggested.

He also reinforces that consuming sustainable seafood choices is imperative, as well as mindful fishing.

Since Cyclone Debbie hit, Kirk and Gaskell’s daily routines at the resort have shifted towards preparing for the reopening, assisting with renovations and constantly checking up on the corals and health of the marine life who live in the reef.

But with just over a month to go until the resort reopens, the two can’t wait to get back into the swing of things.

“The constant opportunity to gain knowledge every day at Daydream Island Resort fuels my all-encompassing passion for marine life, I feel very privileged to get to do what I love every day,” Gaskell said.

Daydream Island is currently taking bookings from 10th April 2019 onwards, to book go here.

For the best rates guaranteed, discounts and offers, as well as other benefits, join the Daydreamer Club.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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