OCEAN LOVERS TALKS - The urchin invasion: turning a climate crisis into a culinary cure

Unchecked sea urchin population explosions are devastating marine ecosystems along the Great Southern Reef, stripping vital kelp forests and pushing our oceans into crisis. This panel brings together experts to uncover the far-reaching environmental consequences of this silent catastrophe - and explore an unexpected, yet powerful solution. Can turning these destructive invaders into a sought-after delicacy help restore balance to our oceans? Join us for a compelling discussion on how innovation, sustainability, and cuisine can collide to combat climate-driven ocean change.

HOST:

Tessa de Josselin, Actress and Conservationist

Tessa de Josselin is an actor and environmental educator, who is combining her love for the creative industry with environmental advocacy. She hosts the podcast The Nature Between Us, and recently completed her Master’s thesis on seaweed and climate mitigation

SPEAKERS:

Chef Johnson, Melbourne Urchin Restaurant The Roe Australia

Johnson Teoh is a chef passionate about developing sea urchin recipes, transforming them from pest to plate. He advocates for sustainable harvesting to restore marine ecosystems while creating unique culinary experiences.

Dr Sahira Bell, Director and Co-founder, Great Southern Reef Foundation

Sahira is a marine ecologist navigating the space between science and society to drive nature-positive solutions and marine protection.

Dr Emily McLaren, University of Sydney

Emily is an interdisciplinary researcher integrating taxonomy, ecology, and biology to investigate climate change impacts. In particular, focusing on echinoderms, including sea urchins.

WHERE: High Tide Room, Bondi Pavilion

WHEN: 10.30am - 10.50am Saturday, March 22

Important note: Registration does not guarantee you a seat. Please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Ocean Lovers Talks are a feature program of the Ocean Lovers Festival bringing you inspirational talks by leaders and luminaries, scientists, innovators, adventurers and future-proofers focused on solutions to better protect our ocean, promoting hopeful and inspiring views for the future.

The Ocean Lovers Festival is an annual celebration of Ideas, Art+Music & Actions, showcasing some of the latest innovations, science, state-of-the-art technology and cool ideas for helping the ocean. Be inspired and entertained with art, music, food, talks, stalls, workshops and more. Visit our website for more information.

Contact the host of Ocean Lovers Talks - THE URCHIN INVASION: TURNING A CLIMATE CRISIS INTO A CULINARY CURE