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, and the BirdLab for 10 years.

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 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 Governments, conservation groups, the media and his community, both young and old.

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 organizer of tours.

Stephen’s other environmental interests include setting up a self-sufficient rural property using permaculture principles, grows local plants, formed a biodiversity group, DEW Friend of Granite Island, a Fleurieu Marine Education presenter and regular on dolphin and whale watch trips. He has over time set up trails, parks and larger planting projects usually connected to the schools he taught at over 45 years.

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!!