Elizabeth Makin

Tell us a little about yourself.

I grew up in Brisbane and explored the QLD/NSW coastline as a recreational diver, where my encounters with sea animals sparked a passion for discovery and conservation. I began working in biomedical research after university, where I was exposed to incredible animal behaviours and abilities like the neurotoxin of blue-ringed octopus, and this inspired my transition to the marine industry. Now I work as a dive instructor, coxswain and tour guide on Lady Elliot Island where I can witness and share the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

What roles or experiences have you had in marine tourism, conservation, diving, research or education?

I have worked on whale watching and diving vessels on the Gold Coast, before arriving on Lady Elliot Island in 2023. Here I have been privileged to assist with Crown-of-thorns control diving, attend Master Reef Guide masterclasses with world-leading researchers, and help improve our science-based presentations and educational programs.

What inspired you to become a Master Reef Guide?

I want to share this knowledge to inspire everyone to treasure and protect the reef, and the Master Reef Guides program enables that goal. I’m motivated to create connections with like-minded people and leverage that into the future to promote positive change, research, and understanding of our natural wonder, the Great Barrier Reef.

What do you love most about Lady Elliot Island?

Everyone who has visited Lady Elliot Island knows how incredible the marine life is, but not only that – it is the attitude of the people who live and work here that make this place so special. Everyone is so kind, helpful, and passionate about the Reef. We share our sightings and we’re hungry for knowledge. We all want to live in harmony with nature, and Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort embodies that.

Is there a particular marine animal you have a special connection with?

Octopus! They are just so unique, curious, intelligent, and well-camouflaged – it is so much fun to spot them on the reef, and even more fun when they approach us or interact with other marine animals.

What is your favourite Reef experience or encounter?

Seeing Inspector Clouseau (our pink manta ray) and Taurus (our oldest manta ray) on a snorkel safari with guests was incredibly special. And finding eight (8!) octopus on one bommie during a dive…and innumerable other encounters.

What do you hope people take away from their experience with you?

I really enjoy sharing my knowledge of the wonderful creatures calling this place home. When you see an awesome animal, the excitement is infectious.

How do you see your role as a Master Reef Guide contributing to the protection of the Great Barrier Reef?

Master Reef Guides is about spreading awareness and knowledge, as well as forming a network of people that all see how exceptional and ecologically important these ecosystems are. Conservation means limiting our impact on the reef, and we do this by informing our guests of what is and isn’t acceptable, such as not touching our corals and animals.