Visual Storytelling, Coral Reef Conservation, and Ocean Ambassadors: In Conversation with Jacinta Shackleton

Visual Storytelling, Coral Reefs, and Reshaping Perception

“Reef ecosystems protect our coastlines, provide food and medicine, and host an extraordinary array of biodiversity. We need to conserve and protect these places – not just for ourselves, but for the entire world.” – Jacinta Shackleton

Based on Lady Elliot Island on the southern end of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Jacinta Shackleton is a marine biologist, Master Reef Guide, author, and visual storyteller. Through her research into reef species, her authorial work, and her viral underwater photography – including rare sightings of blanket octopuses and ornate eagle rays – Jacinta bridges the gap between scientific conservation and public engagement.

We sat down with Jacinta to talk about witnessing the changing Great Barrier Reef, dispelling myths around sharks, and how surfers can act as front-line ocean role models.

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Snapshot Profile

• Name: Jacinta Shackleton
• Role: Marine Biologist, Master Reef Guide, Author, & Visual Storyteller
• Base: Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia
• Specialism: Coral Reef Ecology, Marine Genetics Research, & Online Ocean Education

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The Interview

Why is conserving and protecting the ocean so personal to you?

Jacinta: I grew up with a deep love for the ocean, and ever since I first ventured into the water, it’s been nearly impossible to get me out!

I’ve been fortunate enough to explore much of the Great Barrier Reef and interact with its incredible inhabitants while witnessing it grow and change over the years. Reef ecosystems protect coastlines, provide vital food and medicine, and host an incredible range of biodiversity. It is a place that is fundamentally important to the entire planet.

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How are you using your work to drive ocean conservation?

Jacinta: My work centers on education, scientific research, and awareness, both in person and online. As a marine biologist and guide on Lady Elliot Island, I educate guests on the reef firsthand. When I’m back home, I use photography, digital storytelling, and writing to reach a global audience.

A huge part of my focus is removing the unfounded fear surrounding sharks, raising awareness about plastic pollution, and teaching practical ways people can help. In my daily life, I focus on reducing plastic use, cutting energy consumption, and picking up trash whenever I’m out.

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What role should the surfing community play in supporting ocean health?

Jacinta: Surfers spend a huge amount of their time in the water, and many of them are looked up to as key role models and ocean ambassadors.

If the surfing community sets a clear, positive example in how they care for the water and speak out about marine issues, others will naturally follow their lead.

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Jacinta’s Recommendations & Inspiration

Photographers & Storytellers

• Pablo Cogollos (@pablocogollos): Ocean photographer and marine advocate.
• Johnny Gaskell (@johnnygaskell): Marine biologist and coral reef researcher.
• Alex Kydd: Underwater photographer capturing ocean wildlife.

Champions & Organizations

• Brinkley Davies: Marine biologist, conservationist, and founder of Balu Blue Foundation.
• Take 3 For The Sea: A simple initiative encouraging everyone to take three pieces of rubbish with them when leaving the beach or waterway.
• The Ocean Cleanup: Developing scalable technologies to clear plastic waste from ocean gyres and rivers worldwide.

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Final Thought

Jacinta: “Every piece of plastic picked up and every story shared to protect marine life makes a difference. Lead by example in the water, and help protect the ecosystems that give us so much.”