Hannah Moloney | Marine Scientist | Freediver | Divemaster | Australia
Hannah’s passion for the sea began at an early age when she was interested in conserving marine life in her own waterfront neighbourhood. Since then, Hannah’s marine biology degree has taken her on quite the epic journey, from the southwest coast of Australia to some of the most tropical destinations in the world.
In the past, Hannah worked as a Project Manager in Ari and Baa Atolls in the Maldives for the Manta Trust. In this role, Hannah researched population dynamics and movements of the Maldivian manta rays, conducted education programs, and promoted marine conservation within the local community.
Her main project these days is her PhD; Hannah’s study focuses on the oceanographic drivers of manta ray behaviour in the Maldives and on the Great Barrier Reef. She is also a science communicator at Arludo where she creates student lectures and social media posts, and mentors high school students. Otherwise, her ocean storytelling is mostly focused on writing blog posts for online magazines about manta ray research at the moment.
Image credit: Miriam Staiger (@miriunderthesea)
When did you first start your storytelling journey?
When working as a marine biologist at a luxury resort in the Maldives in 2015 I realised I could be a steward for the ocean by sharing my knowledge, passion and stories with resort guests and staff. However, I wanted my voice to transcend further than the guests I took snorkelling, inspiring me to start writing.
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
Growing up on the dramatic Great Ocean Road coast, I was fascinated by nature from a young age. From loving surfing, hiking, fossil hunting, and snorkelling as a kid, it grew into a desire to learn more about these fragile ecosystems and the animals so I could protect them in the future. Now 31yrs of age, I have sailed, surfed, dove, free-dove, and trekked the globe in search of adventure and answers. Currently, I am undergoing my Ph.D. in marine science.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I wanted to be a marine biologist since I was 10 years of age. I went straight to University to study when I finished High School.
What/who currently inspires you?
I am inspired greatly by my team of scientists, educators, and conservationists at the Manta Trust and my Ph.D. lab of students and supervisors.
I look up to fellow Aussie Maddison Stewart for tackling conservation from a ground-roots level and being so humble. I am also inspired by surfers like Kelly Slater, Stef Gilmore, and Keala Kennelly for being so fearless and charging great waves.
Image credit: Sophie Owsianka
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking, and that you'd like to recommend to other ocean lovers?
Swell – Captain Liz Clarke
The World is Blue – Dr Sylvia Earle
Phosphorescence – Julia BairdA Brief history of Humankind: Sapiens – Yuval Noah Harari
Guide to the Manta and Devil Rays of the World – Dr Guy Stevens et al.
Sharks of the World – Dr David Ebert et al.
My Octopus Teacher
Images by: Miriam Staiger (@miriunderthesea)
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
For stronger protection with more stringent management plans on our marine and terrestrial ecosystems (of what we have left). And for climate action globally. Large corporation’s need to take responsibility for the destruction they are causing.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
One in where I use love, adventure, and curiosity to protect our oceans.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an Ocean Storyteller?
Following your dreams as a storyteller/conservationist/scientist is a rewarding yet challenging direction to take and is often filled with moments of awe and curiosity. You’ll be surrounded by other ocean addicts who push the boundaries both physically and mentally. But the highs don’t come without risks and making sacrifices in life. This field requires you to pour so much of your heart and soul into making it happen, that it is of utmost importance to ensure you fill up your cup and not let it drain dry to burnout. You are going to be better to the environment and those around you if your well-being is taken care of.
Image credit: Miriam Staiger (@miriunderthesea)
Current Projects
Exploring a potentially new and unstudied manta ray aggregation site off of the world’s largest sand island, K’gari (Fraser Island). This site is exposed to high levels of recreational and commercial fishing pressures. Their interactions with fishing gear and bycatch is unknown and could possibly be problematic for the east coast manta ray population in Australia.
I am also evaluating the socio-economic impact of manta ray tourism in the Maldives. Approaching conservation from an economic angle is something that can be influential to improve policy measures.
INSTAGRAM: @hannah0ceana
