Elise Beaumont

I am a PhD candidate at the University of Wollongong and a member of both the BEAM Lab and the MAVE Lab.

I grew up on the coast of NSW, where I spent much of my time at the beach developing a deep appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants. This connection inspired me to pursue a career in marine conservation and ecology, driven by a strong commitment to protecting the natural world.

I completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in Marine Science in 2023, followed by an Honours degree in 2024 with the MAVE and BEAM labs.

During my Honours, I conducted a Population Viability Analysis on New Zealand common dolphins to assess the rate of population decline and estimate the risk of functional extinction under ongoing fisheries bycatch pressure.

Supervisors: Dr Katharina J. Peters (UOW), Dr Frédérik Saltré (BEAM)

My research

My PhD focuses on developing a dynamic ocean management tool to reduce humpback whale entanglement in fishing gear in NSW. By modelling whale migration routes, their spatial overlap with fisheries, and the influence of oceanographic conditions on both whale movements and entanglement risk, I aim to identify when and where whales are most vulnerable. This work will support fisheries in implementing targeted, adaptive management strategies to reduce entanglement risk while maintaining fishing operations.

My interests

Marine mammal conservation
Mitigation of human impacts
Marine mammal ecology
Ecological modelling

Fun facts

Not only do I study the ocean, but I also work as a beach lifeguard, a swim instructor, volunteer lifeguard and I spend my spare time swimming, surfing and snorkelling, so I guess you could say I like the ocean a little.

Favourite quote

“If working apart we’re a force powerful enough to destabilise our planet, surely working together we are powerful enough to save it” – David Attenborough