General News
8 October, 2022
The sea’s the limit for Torres Strait scientist
A YOUNG female scientist from the remote island of Iama (Yam Island) in Far North Queensland is making big waves in marine biology.
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) congratulated Madeina David, 24, on being recognised among James Cook University’s (JCU) top alumni.
The former Tagai State College school captain was awarded JCU’s Early Career Outstanding Alumni for the College of Science and Engineering in September.
Through her work at TSRA, she’s using her degree in Marine Science to connect traditional knowledge and modern science while inspiring the next generation of Torres Strait Islander scientists to protect and preserve local waters, including the Great Barrier Reef.
Growing up in a fishing family, Ms David understands how critical oceans are to Torres Strait Islanders.
“My parents are my inspiration; they always taught me about the importance of the marine environment to our lives and identity as Torres Strait Islanders,” Ms David said.
“Moving from a small island of around 300 people with plenty of families nearby to Thursday Island for high school and then Townsville for university was hard but worth it.
“Understanding and translating complex science and data in local language is helping bridge the gap between science and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) to support a healthy, sustainable future for our oceans and marine species in the Torres Strait.
“I love everything about marine, fisheries and conservation; I just want to do everything,” she said.
TSRA Sea Project Manager Moni Carlisle said the award was a win on many levels – for Madeina, women in science and conservation in the Torres Strait.
“Women in science are the minority, even more for young Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal scientists, who often don’t have the same access to science mentors, university pathways and educational support services due to resource allocations in remote communities,” Ms Carlisle said.
“Madeina’s work brings together scientists, Traditional Owners, rangers and communities in a way that considers and values the rights, data, knowledge and lived experiences of Torres Strait Islanders.”
In TSRA’s Sea Team, Ms David’s work ranges from environmental management activities, such as coral monitoring and turtle tagging, to training rangers in seagrass monitoring and mentoring students at her former Thursday Island high school.
TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the TSRA was proud to support Madeina’s journey from a TSRA cadetship to a permanent role as a Senior Natural Resource Management Officer.
“While studying at JCU, Madeina was able to learn and earn on the job as a TSRA Cadet,” Mr Stephen said.
“She’s now an award-winning university alumna using her degree to make a significant difference for our communities, people and way of life through science.
“Her achievements create a sense of hope and optimism not only about the future of our oceans but for bright futures and opportunities for young people in the Torres Strait.” Ms David graduated from JCU with a Bachelor of Science in 2021.
Learn more about the TSRA at www.tsra.gov.au
