In conversation with: Brinkley Davies

They say to follow your heart, which in Brinkley Davies’ case has led her to big things – the oceans, for one. A marine biologist and environmental conservationist, Brinkley devotes her days to making the earth a healthier place through her foundation Balu Blue and her everyday eco-friendly habits. Our kinda girl. Read our interview and get inspired below.

Tell us about growing up near the ocean.

I was lucky enough to grow up in coastal South Australia with endless empty beaches, so much marine life and perfect waves with my friends and family. Growing up near the ocean was something that inspired me on many levels – it was my playground as a kid, as a teenager, and now as an adult. I always wanted to learn more about it and do what I can to protect it.

When did you know you wanted to study Marine Biology?

Actually really early on. I remember writing Marine Biologist as my career goals on a piece of paper when I just started school. It became more and more clear to me as I grew up that the path I wanted was studying the ocean, and conserving it, which leads me to now.

You recently started the Balu Blue Foundation. What motivated you to take the big step?

I reached a point in my life where I was here, there and everywhere volunteering, diving, doing research trips, filming, and also involved in many different parts of advocacy in marine conservation – and I thought, why don’t I start something of my own? A really big influence in this was my pup Balu. He was a beautiful rescue pup we had for just under a year. He loved the ocean, he loved other animals and he had such a kind heart – he was family. Unfortunately, we lost Balu just short of his first birthday to the horrific 1080 bait that is used by national parks and farmers here in South Australia. It saddened me greatly and angered me that our society is uneducated in their conservation methods, and it inspired me to start my own organisation. I figured if someone doesn’t do something about this, then it will never change – I decided to start the foundation then.

A big inspiration, was also our rescue Kangaroo, Bunji, she came into our lives not long after all this happened with Balu, and it all started from there.