Member Spotlight: Balu Blue Foundation

We are thrilled to welcome Balu Blue Foundation and its founder Brinkley Davies as one of our selected not-for-profits this year. Balu Blue Foundation is a leading figure in marine conservation and animal welfare. Since its inception in 2016, the foundation has been at the forefront of innovative conservation efforts, driven by a deep love for the ocean and its inhabitants. In this Q&A, we delve into Davies's journey from a passionate surfer and diver to a pioneer in wildlife conservation.

We explore the unique initiatives, such as Wildlife Expeditions, that reconnect people with nature, and discuss the foundation's commitment to modern conservation practices, education, and sustainable land management.

Read more below about the impactful work of the Balu Blue Foundation and the visionary leadership that propels it forward.

1.Can you tell us more about your journey and what inspired you to found the Balu Blue Foundation in 2016?

My experience in the marine world has been extensive. Starting as a surfer in my youth, I later became involved in diving and animal welfare through volunteer work during my teenage years. My deep-seated love and passion for the ocean and all animals, has been with me since childhood.

Through my diverse involvement, I identified a notable gap in the conservation community. Motivated by this, I aimed to leverage both my audience and expertise to establish an organisation with contemporary core values. This initiative was driven by a desire to address prevalent issues within the wildlife conservation field, and grow a community centred around that. 

2.How do your ventures such as Wildlife Expeditions, contribute to the conservation goals of the Balu Blue Foundation?

I started organising expeditions primarily to facilitate direct reconnections between people and nature, offering unique opportunities to inspire conservation mindsets through encounters with wildlife. One of my strongest passions lies in ensuring that wildlife is encountered only in environments that are conducive to their well-being. Many tourism activities can have detrimental effects on wildlife, but by curating trips that combine a diverse range of experiences, including desirable leisure activities like freediving, we promote our vision of observing wildlife in their natural habitats, especially whales. This provides a rare, once-in-a-lifetime experience that few people have the chance to enjoy, and keep those memories for a lifetime. 

3.Can you elaborate on your theory of change and how the Balu Blue Foundation's focus on rehabilitation, education, and preservation addresses the challenges facing Australian wildlife and their habitats?

At Balu Blue, our approach to wildlife conservation blends modern methodologies rooted in animal welfare, rescue, research, and ethics. We reject outdated practices prevalent in Australian conservation since the early 1900s, recognizing our changing landscape. Our dynamic community, driven by a youthful and engaged audience, reflects our commitment to inclusivity. We prioritize education and collaboration, exemplified by our wildlife rescue app initiative, uniting caregivers and enthusiasts. Our carnivore conservation project in Exmouth focuses on Dingoes, supported by scientific licensing and local expertise, aiming to protect predator populations from disease and aligned with broader land conservation goals. Additionally, we are developing a structured turtle rescue group and facility for summer needs. In Western Australia, we pioneer sustainable land management by acquiring coastal parcels for intervention-free sanctuaries. Our educational initiatives address wildlife care gaps with plans for integrated training in schools and public outreach. Committed to marine preservation, we tackle plastic pollution through diver action networks and marine animal rescue training. Embracing ambitious goals, we know achieving our vision requires collective support.

4.With your extensive experience in marine biology, what are some of the most significant changes you've observed in marine ecosystems over the past years, and how has this influenced your work?

This question covers numerous changes observed and monitored over the years, including the loss of seagrass beds, warming ocean temperatures, and habitat decline in reef areas. An ongoing issue in my daily life has been the impact of fishing nets, lines, and other debris—both commercial and recreational—posing immediate and recurring threats to marine life. While the primary solutions involve reducing and preventing such waste, there are also wildlife care interventions and trained community members ready to respond when needed. Almost every day, I encounter fishing debris while diving or witness animals entangled in hooks or lines. Education plays a crucial role in addressing this significant issue at its source.

5.How do you envision reconnecting people with nature through your initiatives, and why do you believe this connection is crucial for environmental conservation?

I believe that people are more inclined to value things they have personally connected with. Experiencing a species firsthand and feeling the awe of face-to-face interactions can foster a deeper care and appreciation. In Australia, many grow up with a natural affinity for nature due to our coastal lifestyles. However, as we age, this connection can unintentionally diminish, leading to a lack of awareness about the impacts of our actions on local environments. I am passionate about educating others to reignite their love and respect for nature, empowering them to advocate for the preservation of our cherished landscapes and their inhabitants.

6.What does it mean to you to be part of Subak Australia's 2024 cohort, and how do you think this collaboration will impact your work with Balu Blue Foundation?

I am honoured to join Subak Australia as part of the new Cohort this year. I am confident that sharing my passions and vision for the Balu Blue Foundation with seasoned professionals in their respective fields will significantly advance our aspirations and the path ahead. I look forward to building meaningful connections, forging friendships, and potentially establishing future collaborations with like-minded individuals in this esteemed cohort.