Making waves

Rhiannon Mitchell Founder, Saltwater Sistas Bachelor of Science (Marine Systems) student

Mununjali woman and Marine Science student Rhiannon Mitchell wants to change the future for Indigenous girls and women. That’s why she founded Saltwater Sistas, a mentoring program that creates a safe, culturally appropriate place to learn about culture, wellbeing, and ocean conservation.

Based in Coffs Harbour on Gumbaynggirr Country, Saltwater Sistas conduct group beach clean-ups, mentoring, DIY workshops, Elder conversations, or any activity where nature and culture is at the forefront.

“I grew up in nature as an Aboriginal person, and I was always really connected to the land,” said Rhiannon. “We grew up swimming in the rivers, climbing trees, playing in the bush, and coming to the beach on the weekends. Then I started Saltwater Sistas because I thought so many Aboriginal children haven’t seen the ocean the way that I’ve been able to see it and be inspired by it. Studying marine science has given my program a whole other dimension.”

Distinguished Professor Peter Harrison (standing, 4th from left) and his team, including Southern Cross students and alumni, at the Whitsundays working on a coral spawning project to revitalise sections of the Great Barrier Reef.