Mel first joined Alexandra Headlands SLSC in 2000 and later joined Townsville Picnic Bay SLSC when she relocated to North Queensland to undertake her PhD. As an active member of the surf life saving movement in south-east and regional Queensland, she has held numerous roles at the club and branch level. She has also been part of advisory committees at the state and national level related to diversity and the environment.

Now based in Brisbane, Mel is a marine scientist with over 20 years’ experience. She is an active member of the environment profession, championing best practice and the involvement of women in science and technical roles. Mel is also an experienced not-for-profit board member and committed to building inclusive cultures to lead sustainable change across communities and the environment.