Stephen Hedges has become an acknowledged expert on the Little penguin colony on Granite Island. He has made an outstanding contribution to penguin research, first as a tour guide for more than 20 years, and then as a research assistant with Flinders University.

His voluntary work and field trips assisting in the colony’s survival has not only added to an enhanced understanding of the factors affecting their decline by helping to collect crucial information, including sadly, keeping a detailed record of sea birds washed up along the state’s south coast. He also formed a volunteer group of citizen scientists that visit the colony every night caring for the penguins and educating visitors. He is often called on to communicate the current science and stories to Local and State Government departments, conservation groups, the media and his community, both young and old. This year the part plastics play in our marine environment has been a priority, with presentations and large art projects.

He became Senior Environmental Advisor to the company leading the Granite Island Causeway Project. He also worked for the City of Victor Harbor as an advisor and manager of tours.

Stephen’s other environmental interests include setting up a self-sufficient rural property using permaculture principles, growing local plants and forming a biodiversity group He is a DEW Friend of Granite Island, a Fleurieu Marine Education presenter and a regular on dolphin and whale watch trips. He has over time set up trails, parks and larger planting projects usually connected to the schools where he taught as an art teacher for over 45 years. As an artist, the plight of wild life is a common theme.

Apart from his environmental side he is a presenter with RYDA, a national road safety program, a life member of Back Valley Tennis Club, long term volunteer at WOMAD and is in a BUSH BAND!!

Availability : Fleurieu and surrounding areas, Metro all day