Our Turtle Team!

Who we are

We've teamed up to bring you a club that is of, by, and for... the Turtles! We're enthusiastic about sea turtles and hope to share that same passion with you. Come join us at a turtle talk or a scheduled social event, and become part of the only Sea Turtle club on JCU campus.

Current Executive Committee 2024

Jake Kahn

President

Jake.Kahn@my.JCU.edu.au

"I found my motivation and passion in Australia when I began the pursuit of my Master of Marine Biology Degree. Always trying to learn more, opening doors wherever I can, and bringing people along for the journey. I also love sharing cool turtle facts, like did you know, that the average sea turtle hatchling is the cutest thing ever"

Gabrielle Joslin-Thomas

Vice President

Gabriellejoslinthomas@gmail.com

I fell in love with the ocean at a very young age while growing up on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Whilst completing my Bachelor of Marine Biology at the University of Technology Sydney, I completed a sea turtle conservation internship based on the Conflict Island of Papua New Guinea. Sparking my love for sea turtle conservation, I moved to James Cook University to complete my Master of Marine Biology. During my time here, I have volunteered at JCU Turtle Health Research with loggerhead turtles and continued to gain and share my knowledge and love for this amazing species!

Maria Soler

Treasurer

maria.munozsoler@my.jcu.edu.au

"I am passionate about marine life and conservation. My love for the ocean and marine animals began at the age of eight, and I've aspired to be a marine biologist ever since. I had the opportunity to work with leatherback turtles in Costa Rica, which fostered a deep appreciation for them. Now, I'm enjoying my experiences in Australia and the wonderful people I've met here."

Natalia Torres

Secretary

natalia.torresirizarry@my.jcu.edu.au

"With a lifelong love for marine life, fostered by growing up on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, I've always been captivated by the ocean. An unforgettable experience witnessing the release of hatchling sea turtles solidified my passion for these incredible creatures. Now in Australia, I'm surrounded by stunning marine life and eager to contribute to the sea turtle conservation efforts here."

Fernando Cisneros

Social Media Coordinator

fcisnerosb42@gmail.com

"My love for the ocean started young, but the Galápagos Islands truly sparked my passion for marine life. Snorkeling there, I was surrounded by different animals like white-tip reef sharks and sea turtles that captured my interest. This experience ignited a love for these underwater animals. For the past four years, I've been researching and helping conserve turtles. This journey made me even more committed to their conservation."