Family, Skippers, Marine Biologists

The people you'll
spend the morning with.

Every one of us grew up on this water — or moved here specifically for it. We are not a rota of casual staff. This is our family business, and every trip out is personal.

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Family

Angus Steeles

Captain · Founder

Captain / Founder Angus was raised in Ballina with a lifelong connection to the ocean. Growing up in and around the water, Angus developed a deep passion for the sea, surfing, boating, and the incredible marine life found along our coastline.

With years of experience on local waters, he loves sharing that passion with others by creating memorable experiences at sea. Whether it's spotting whales, exploring the coastline, or simply enjoying time on the water, Angus is proud to showcase the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers to locals and visitors alike.

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Family

Cori Steeles

Manager · Co-founder

Cori, Manager / Co-founder of Ballina Byron Marine Adventures, raised in Lennox Head, where a lifelong connection to the ocean began early. Growing up surfing, exploring the coastline, and embracing an active outdoor lifestyle, Cori developed a deep appreciation for the sea, the waves, and everything this region has to offer.

Now raising a family in Ballina, Cori remains passionate about surfing, life on the water, and sharing the beauty of the Northern Rivers coast and the lifestyle she grew up with.

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Family

Sayla Steeles

Next-generation crew

Sayla is the youngest member of the Ballina Byron Marine Adventures crew and an up-and-coming skipper in the making. Growing up around boats, beaches, and the ocean, Sayla is already developing a love for life on the water and the coastal lifestyle. With the sea in her blood and adventure all around her, she's proudly next generation crew and future captain material.

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Science

Ellie Cameron

Marine Biologist · Skipper

Marine Biologist & Skipper Ellie was raised in the Northern Rivers and has always shared a strong connection with the ocean. Growing up surfing and exploring the local coastline, Ellie has spent the past six years studying and working on the water.

With a Master's degree in Marine Biology and research experience across remote Western Australia, Ellie has recently returned home to help inspire appreciation for the incredible marine life and biodiversity found right here on our doorstep. Ellie also works in the local dive industry, Skippering & guiding guests on scuba diving experiences in Byron Bay. Ellie is passionate about sharing knowledge, love for the ocean, and unforgettable wildlife experiences with guests onboard.

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Science

Emma Pegg

Marine Biologist · Guide

Originally from Aotearoa (New Zealand), Emma moved to the Northern Rivers several years ago, drawn by the region's spectacular coastline and marine life. Emma is a marine biologist, environmental scientist, underwater photographer, and experienced marine wildlife guide. After recently completing a lap of Australia, she spent several years exploring the country's coast through diving, surfing, photography, and conservation work.

As part of the Ballina Byron Marine Adventures team, Emma loves helping guests connect with the whales, dolphins, turtles, and other incredible wildlife found along the Ballina and Byron Bay coastline. She is passionate about inspiring a deeper appreciation and care for our oceans and waterways.

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Science

Charli Baird

Marine Biologist

Charli is a passionate Marine Biologist and ocean lover who grew up in South Australia and has been based in Northern NSW since 2019. She has a strong connection to the marine environment and enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences to help inspire others to appreciate and protect the ocean.

Over the years, Charli has been involved in marine research and conservation work throughout Western Australia, North Queensland, and Northern NSW. Some of Charli's experience include studying Humpback Whale birthing behaviour and contributing to coral restoration projects, giving her the opportunity to work within some of Australia's most unique and diverse marine ecosystems.