How and Why I Got Started
My journey as an environmental, animal, and human rights activist spans over a decades. My vegan and activism journey began because of my love for dolphins and the ocean. It was the slaughter and capture of dolphins in Taiji Japan that really ignited the fire within me that continues to burn today. Once I attended my first protest in August 2013, the rest quickly became history. I watched the documentary "The Cove" the evening before the Taiji Protest. I was so affected by that documentary that I decided then and there that I would go to Taiji as a Cove Guardian with the former Sea Shepherd in 2014. I then returned to Taiji as a ground leader in 2015 and stayed for 2 months. I then tried to return in August 2018, however I was detained, interrogated for 5 hours, body searched, luggae searched, denied entry and then thrown into a cell for 20 hours before being deported like a criminal. I went to Costa Rica with former Sea Shepherd in 2016 for Operation Jairo II where we saved 1899 Olive Ridley Turtles from poachers. This was by far my most dangerous campaign as we were chased off the secluded beaches by drug cartel members with machetes. I also went to Mexico for 3 months, again with former Sea Shepherd on the MV Sharpie on Operation Treasured Islands. In July I will be heading off on another international campaign but will disclose more about that when I am over there.
In Australia I have organized and been involved in several protests, rallies, fund raisers, lock ons, actions, blockades etc. I am also the founder of Dolphin Freedom Fighters and work with 7 organisations on a pressure campaign against Sea World Gold Coast. We hold monthly protests and plant based BBQs out the front of Sea World, this campaign has been going strong for 4 years.
I have been actively involved with the Save Wallum blockade for over 4 months and was recently arrested for chaining myself to a bulldozer that was about to destroy endangered froglet ponds and sacred ancient trees.
The Birth of An Eco-Conscious Clothing Brand
With the launch of Animal Freedom Fighters, I aim to merge my passion for activism with my creative expression. Through thoughtfully designed shirts and accessories, each purchase supports my continued advocacy work. Your support not only enables me to remain on the front lines but also helps fund upcoming initiatives, including an international campaign with an ocean conservation organisation to protest the brutal slaughter of pilot whales in the Faroe Islands.
Together, We Can
As I prepare for this journey, I risk facing uncertainties such as unpaid leave, job loss, and financial strain, all while caring for my rescue cats. Your support is now more crucial than ever. Together, we can make a difference and pave the way for a more compassionate and sustainable future—for the ocean, the animals, and us all. Stay updated on my journey.