Science
I am a multi-skilled communications professional and graduate of University of Tasmania; (majors include Journalism, Media and Communications & Zoology). I'm passionate about travel, nature, the arts, media, human rights and animal welfare.
Originating from a rural property in Southern New South Wales, I developed an interest in journalism working for Southern Riverina News, a newspaper with a circulation of approximately 2000. At university I continued to thrive in communications roles, editing the annual publication for my accommodation college, and acting as Communications Officer, and later as Print Editor for the UTAS premier student magazine, Togatus.
I now live in Canberra, where I work in communications for the Australian Academy of Science. I previously worked for the Australian College of Nursing, ACT Writers Centre and the National Library of Australia, all in Canberra. In my spare time, I love photographing nature, particularly birds.
Science
If there's one thing you should learn from carnivorous plants, it's this: when you're in strife, DON'T PANIC. The Venus flytrap ( Dionaea muscipula), the posterplant of carnivorous flora, relies on the panicky nature of its prey to successfully capture it.
Ebola. COVID-19. Avian influenza. SARS. Zika virus. What do these infectious diseases all have in common? They all originated in animals before they infected humans. They're not the only ones either. In fact, around 60 per cent of infectious diseases in people are zoonotic.
There's a lot going on in your cup of coffee. All those complex and varied taste sensations, the aroma, the 'mouthfeel' or texture of the brew-they all contribute to your overall experience of consuming the drink. And those elements are each the result of some interesting underlying chemistry.
Science Matters magazine is packed with good news stories and highlights the impact of partnerships and philanthropic giving at the Australian Academy of Science. From supporting early-career researchers to staging world-class science events, the magazine delves into stories of discovery and inspiration from the past year.
When things got personally tricky for astronomer Associate Professor Deanne Fisher, she led organisation-wide action-paving the way for a more accessible and inclusive STEMM sector. Space is both personal and epic. It's full of mystery and uncertainty. And riddles to uncover. That's why Associate...
Blogging
NurseClick is a blog on nursing practice, policy developments and professional issues, run by the Australian of College of Nursing (ACN). I started the blog and managed, sourced, edited and wrote content in 2018.
In my role as Communications Officer I edited and managed the ACT Writers Centre Blog in 2015, which included managing the Blogger in Residence program.
My personal blog about rediscovering the southern Riverina region.
News & Editorial
Stunned by America's 'travel bans', and outraged by Australia's treatment of asylum seekers, Olivia Congdon has penned an open letter to Peter Dutton.
News piece for Canberra website, The Riot ACT
Environment, travel and culture
Interview with a conservation professional for an international careers blog.
I interviewed CEO of the Tasmanian Land Conservancy, Jane Hutchinson, for this careers-based conservation blog.
I was the Designer, a sub-editor and a reviewer for this ebook, a guide to Canggu, Bali. The book can be downloaded for free at this link.
A feature article on animal welfare and tourism, using the example of Luwak Coffee in Indonesia.
Braddon is known for its good coffee and abundance of bars and brunch venues. But no longer does your breakfast have to be a guilty pleasure. I've compiled this list of healthier breakfasts you can try in Canberra's foodie hotspot.