INTERVIEW WITH HAMISH DAUD

Australian Actor, Ocean Activist, Ambassador for Indonesian Ocean Pride

The giant oceanic manta ray has the largest brain-to-body mass ratio of any cold blooded fish. They control plankton abundance and diversity and regulate nutrient cycling. The giant manta ray has become highly valued in international markets for its gill rakers, sponge-like tissue between their gills, which are used in Chinese remedies. While there are strong regulations governing use, their products are highly prone to illegal market trade. The value of a live manta ray to a country for tourism out paces their price on the illegal market. A single ray can contribute up to $8 million to the tourism economy in its 40 year life span.

1. What has inspired you to become an advocate for ocean conservation?

I have grown up by the sea my whole life here in Indonesia. The past 35 years I have experienced the beauty, but I have also seen the devastation. I cannot be part of a generation that has ruined things for my kids.

2. What is the most memorable experience you have had in the ocean? 

Every dive or surf is special and different. As a child, I have so many memories of whales, dolphins, mantas and sharks. The list goes on! 

3. You are a keen surfer, so you have a close connection to the sea. How can people feel connected to the ocean even if they don’t live by the coast?

Indonesia is a maritime country surrounded by ocean, not land. It seems we are going through a cultural shift and detatching from our roots as ocean people. I encourage people to start diving or spending weekends by the coast. Once more people become proud of our ocean... that's the moment they will begin to protect it.

4. What do you think is the greatest danger to our oceans?

Humans.

5. What can people do to help protect marine life?

Start diving or surfing... or any activity/sport that takes place in the sea. Here they can begin to feel and understand this body that covers 70% of the earth.