We first came across Marina DeBris' artistic practice while walking the Bondi to Coogee coastal track in Sydney in 2020. Piles of collected ocean waste and microplastics would pop up along the otherwise pristine path, leaving passers-by (including us!) wondering how they’d got there. It wasn’t until much later that we learnt more about Marina and that, in fact, she had collected this trash from the beaches nearby and placed it in plain view to confront the reality of ocean pollution and stir up a sense of activism in passers-by. Known as a ‘rubbish artist’, Marina uses the debris she collects from our shores to highlight the growing crisis of marine pollution. Her work is raw, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore. Marina’s journey as an artist has taken her from Bondi to Venice Beach and back again, now based in Lake Macquarie, she continues to turn discarded plastics into powerful environmental statements through her multi-disciplinary practice. We were excited to have the chance to collaborate with Marina as part of our ‘Mark of a Milestone’ project to celebrate our new brand symbol. In true Marina fashion, the artist created a piece for us made entirely from waste collected on Sydney’s beaches, echoing the values of our philanthropic Xanthe Project dedicated to ocean conservation.  Gordon's Bay, Sydney It felt fitting to photograph Marina for this story at Gordon’s Bay, a beautiful stretch of sand and rocks that, quite sadly, has contributed much of the rubbish in her works over the years. During the shoot, a curious coastal walker named Lilly stopped to speak to Marina at length about her environmental work, and left determined to contribute to the cause. It’s illuminating conversations like these that underscore the importance of Marina’s art and provide an optimistic outlook for a problem that can, at times, seem overwhelming.  In this interview, we speak to Marina about the story behind her work, her creative process, and the important role artists play in raising awareness around environmental issues. Marina, your work is deeply rooted in environmental activism. What first inspired you to turn ocean debris into art?  For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved the ocean and art. When I moved from Bondi Beach to Venice, CA, I noticed how much rubbish was washing up on the beach. I started picking it up and became involved with local organisations like Heal the Bay and 5 Gyres. When I learned about the devastating effects on marine life, I knew I had to get involved in the issue. Having trained as a graphic designer, I was aware of the importance of delivering a message through visual means. I also missed working with my hands (or in this case, getting my hands dirty!).  “When I learned about the devastating effects on marine life, I knew I had to get involved in the issue.” The name "Marina DeBris" is a clever play on words. How did you come up with this persona, and what does it represent to you?  I just had an inkling that I wanted to invent an alter ego when I began this work. Originally, it was ‘Deb Ris’, then it morphed into “Marina Deb Ris,” but both were often misunderstood, so I changed it to “Marina DeBris.” That one stuck, and so did the persona!  'Sea Serpent, made from micro-plastics found on Sydney beaches Marina collecting debris Your ‘trashion’ (fashion) shows have gained significant attention. How do you select the materials for these pieces, and what message do you hope to convey through them?  The pieces reflect the materials I collect most often. In general, I do not wash or alter anything. I want it to appear as raw and ugly as the issue is. The message is simple: stop the waste!  “I do not wash or alter anything. I want it to appear as raw and ugly as the issue is. The message is simple: stop the waste!” Much of your work focuses on marine pollution. How do you balance the artistic elements of your work with its environmental message?  Simply by instinct. There must be interest in the piece as a work of art first. The pieces I consider successful are both artistically alluring and able to deliver a clear message.  Micro-plastics collected in Gordon's Bay Can you tell us a little bit about the piece you created in response to our new symbol and artistic brief?  I mirrored the new symbol using exclusively found materials including ‘hard rubbish’ collected off the streets like the frame, pins and cleaning materials. The core of the piece incorporates microplastics that I collected from various local Sydney beaches. Larger pieces of plastic break up into microplastics and are prevalent on most beaches. In the ocean, these plastics absorb even more toxins and are ingested by marine animals. Microplastics and nanoplastics are in our water, food, and even air! A thought-provoking piece made with plastic waste Marina photographed at Gordon's Bay “I mirrored the new symbol using exclusively found materials including ‘hard rubbish’ collected off the streets…the core of the piece incorporates microplastics that I collected from various local beaches.” What role do you think artists should play in raising awareness about environmental issues? The arts are important for raising awareness about environmental issues. Data is hard to imagine, so artists have a unique opportunity to display these messages in emotive ways, so people can relate to the severity of these issues.  Much of your art is inherently ephemeral, given the nature of the materials you use. How do you view the impermanence of your work?  It’s difficult to work with these materials because they break up over time…however, they never go away. I do a lot of repair work, but I also collect materials on a daily basis, so sadly, I have a lot to work with. As a viewer said of one of my pieces: “This is like art that shouldn’t even exist!”  Details of 'Sea Serpent' “The ocean plays a crucial role in my life. I visit her every day.”   Lastly, where do you enjoy swimming and spending time along our beautiful coastline? Do you have a go-to beach?  The ocean plays a crucial role in my life. I visit her every day. In the warmer months, I jump in after my run and attempt to body surf. I have lived on the coast since 1989 and find it difficult to stay away from the ocean for a long period of time. Up until last year, it was the eastern suburbs beaches of Sydney, but since moving to Lake Macquarie, I enjoy Redhead & Blacksmith’s beaches. I frequent the beaches I live closest to.  

There's a subtle art to mastering the perfect Ear Alchemy—the SARAH & SEBASTIAN approach to transformative ear styling and piercing. While traditional ear styling focuses on symmetry, we celebrate the individuality of every ear, embracing their distinct contours as canvases for bold expression. Through thoughtful experimentation and our extensive range of earrings and piercing jewellery, we create considered compositions to elevate your natural features. Immerse yourself in the world of Ear Alchemy with Tamila Purvis, Head of Ear Alchemy, as she shares her expert guide to ear styling with artistry and precision. 1. HIGHLIGHT YOUR BEST FEATURES "Every ear is unique, so it’s all about embracing and enhancing your natural contours," says Tamila. "For instance, if you have beautifully wide lobes, consider adorning them with two or three piercings to fill out the space in a considered way." The classic way to do this is with three piercings in a row, up the outer curve of your ear, but if you're feeling adventurous, opt for a triangular formation or a Rebis piercing—a dual piercing, one on top of another (pictured)—to accentuate the space. A spacious flat—the soft cartilage area between the helix and the conch—also makes for an ideal canvas for multiple piercings or bold pieces, like our most loved Diamond Gravity Earring. 2. CREATE A FOCAL POINT "Opt for a standout piece in a strategic placement to naturally draw attention and create impact," explains Tamila. "Surround it with understated designs to create balance and enhance its appeal." A hoop in the daith placement—the inner ridge of the ear—is a great way to create a focal point in the centre of the ear. With graduating diamonds, our Ouroboros Diamond Daith Hoop (pictured) masterfully enhances the natural curve of the inner ear, making it an impressive centrepiece. Here, we've balanced this piece by embellishing the outer contours of the ear with some minimalist diamond styles, including Fine Gossamer Cartilage Earrings in the lobe and helix and the Round Suspense Cartilage Earring III in the forward helix. 3. LEAN INTO REPETITION "Repeating the same earring or similar design motifs is a simple yet impactful way to create order and cohesion," Tamila explains. "The key is to distribute them thoughtfully across the ear for balance." Consider a distinctive motif like the Daisy Cartilage Earring or the Aristotle's Lantern Cartilage Earring (pictured). These unique designs bring character to your composition and are perfect for replicating in multiple placements. 4. DON'T SHY AWAY FROM COLOUR "Coloured gemstones are a great way to bring energy to your ear styling," says Tamila. "Whether you’re drawn to the soft iridescence of opals or the vibrant richness of emeralds, a touch of colour can add depth and dimension to your look." For a subtle approach, incorporate one or two coloured gemstone pieces into an all-gold composition, allowing them to take centre stage. For a more vibrant curation, stack gemstones in a single hue, like our Emerald Cluster Earrings and Verdigris Cluster Hoops, or mix a range of different colours to create a striking ear. 5. DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER "You can never go wrong with an all-diamond ensemble," emphasises Tamila. "The more diamonds, the better—scattered across the ear to illuminate every curve." Our Suspense Earrings (pictured) are ideal for creating a diamond-forward look. With a minimalist setting and diamonds in various shapes, they appear to float effortlessly along the ear, creating a standout composition. 6. EMBRACE NEGATIVE SPACE To create intrigue in a pared-back ear with simple everyday styles, Tamila suggests incorporating at least one unique design to create intrigue and let each piece shine:  "If you're in the mood for a more minimal curation, or you only have a few piercings, embrace the space and get experimental with the pieces you choose. It's an opportunity to showcase something a little bit different." Even subtle pieces with a twist will do the trick here, like our Neptune's Earrings or Neptune's hoops (pictured) with petite champagne diamonds, inspired by the spiked contours of sea urchins. 7. INCORPORATE DYNAMIC PIECES "Dynamic pieces like drop earrings that dangle and shift with every movement bring a unique sense of drama to your ear styling," says Tamila. "The way their fluidity catches and reflects light in a way that draws the eye, elevates even the simplest of outfits." For a refined approach, pair a single statement piece, like our Urchin Cartilage Earring, with minimalist studs to highlight its movement. For a more layered effect, combine various shapes—mixing studs, and hoops with dangling diamonds—to create a multidimensional composition. To make a bolder statement, layer multiple drop earrings and pieces with cascading elements for a striking arrangement that sparkles with every turn. 8. THROW OUT THE RULEBOOK "Sometimes it's worth forgetting the rigidity of rules—after all the beauty of ear styling lies in its idiosyncrasy!" exclaims Tamila. "Let your imagination run wild when it comes to earring combinations, as this makes for a dynamic composition that feels out of the box and also tells your own little story."  The best way to approach this is by deliberately placing different shapes and motifs together—pick your favourite pieces and play with how they sit in different contours and parts of the ear. Have each piece create its own statement in different sections of the ear and mix and match designs until it feels right—the goal is to have fun with it.

When it comes to jewellery styling, the unique architecture of your ears serves as the perfect blank canvas for self-expression. With each curve and contour comes unique placements and endless creative compositions—an opportunity to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. While SARAH & SEBASTIAN has become renowned for intricate fine jewellery pieces including rings, necklaces and bracelets, creative director Sarah Munro has always had a soft spot for earrings, piercing jewellery and the boundless possibilities of ear styling. Thus, in 2021, we launched our collection of piercing jewellery—including 18-karat gold and platinum cartilage earrings designed for initial piercings—alongside Ear Alchemy, SARAH & SEBASTIAN's signature luxury piercing service led by piercing connoisseur Tamila Purvis and a team of industry experts. Dedicated to the process of transforming your ears, Ear Alchemy comprises a personalised ear styling consultation, anatomy-specific piercing appointments, conducted to the highest standards of safety and cleanliness in our state-of-the-art piercing labs, a comprehensive aftercare service to assist you throughout the healing process, and Ear Spa, a complimentary earring clean and care service to refresh your ears and your diamonds. We understand that getting a piercing can often be a daunting experience, but our expert team are here to guide you every step of the way. We invite you to step inside the world of Ear Alchemy to discover everything you need to know about the experience, whether you're just starting your piercing journey or are ready to elevate your ear styling game. THE EAR ALCHEMY EXPERIENCE: HOW IT WORKS CHOOSING YOUR APPOINTMENT LOCATION Since launching our Ear Alchemy service, we have expanded to seven piercing locations across Australia including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. In Sydney, the SARAH & SEBASTIAN Piercing Labs are situated at the iconic Strand Arcade and inside David Jones, Elizabeth Street in the city, as well as an intimate space hidden below street level at our Paddington store in the Eastern Suburb's Oxford Street.  Simply select your preferred location online to book an appointment. BOOKING YOUR EAR ALCHEMY APPOINTMENT A full-service experience, Ear Alchemy encompasses different appointments based on your needs, including personalised ear styling, anatomy-specific piercing, aftercare services and Ear Spa treatments.  EAR ALCHEMY STYLINGDuring this 30-minute complimentary styling session, you can browse our comprehensive range of studs, hoops and cartilage earrings, with expert guidance on how to artfully combine your fine jewellery and create bespoke compositions that reflect your unique ear anatomy and personal style. Book an Ear Alchemy Styling appointment here PIERCINGOur piercing appointment comprises a styling session with your piercer, up to three piercings, and comprehensive aftercare advice. We only work with high-quality single-use needles, ensuring the highest industry standards of hygiene, safety and sterilisation, and 18-karat gold or platinum piercing jewellery designed specifically for initial piercings.  Piercing prices: $45-90 per placement. Jewellery: from $195 per earring (additional). We also offer piercing for two to share the experience with a loved one; simply add a second person when booking.  Book a luxury piercing appointment here AFTERCAREFollowing a new piercing, we invite you to book a complimentary Aftercare appointment within 4-8 weeks to monitor the healing progress and downsize your earring to a shorter post. Everyone's healing journey is different and piercings can take between three months to over a year to heal, depending on where it is. We offer comprehensive aftercare advice, including nutrition and lifestyle support to help you throughout the healing process.

I grew up three hours away from the sea on a farm outside Canberra. One of my earliest memories is fishing with my brother in Batemans Bay. I still have a photo of this, and yes, I put it back in the sea! I look back on this photo and know it was a small brim! Seeing a fish up close like that was so interesting, and from then on, I became fascinated with marine life.  Can you describe a moment when you felt in awe of the ocean?  The first moment that comes to mind is when I saw my first iceberg in Antarctica. It was as if I had arrived in another world. We left Hobart into 11-metre seas at night and it was a wild ride down south to the Antarctic–it was also my first time on a big ship. As the water calmed and I felt brave enough to step onto the deck, I looked into the distance and watched in awe as this white shape came closer and closer—it was very special.  Another moment was just off Sydney’s coast, where the water turned to glass and I saw these large bottlenose dolphins escorting our vessel. Then, in the distance, I saw this angled blow. It was a sperm whale! Another time, I was returning home from Antarctica and we came across 16-metre waves—our large ship suddenly felt so vulnerable. We could see them coming on the ship's bridge and all we could do was ride them. We had our sea legs by then, so it was fun!    Vanessa's first fish As a scientist, author, speaker, and educator, how do you inspire deeper connections with the ocean? Coming from an environment where the ocean was out of sight (but not out of mind!), I do my best to relate the ocean to people by making its importance relatable. I try to create connections between the sea and everyday life—from the weather patterns that we experience to the air that we breathe. This is a powerful way to grab people’s attention and I speak about this at the start of my TEDx talk.  With many years of experience under my belt, I am now on a mission to inspire and empower the next generation of scientists. They are the future decision-makers who will help contribute to the protection of marine mammals in Australia, especially as our human footprint expands into the sea. I want them to embrace their heritage and continue that respect for their elders and those who came before them, to formally acknowledge their connection to Land and Sea country.  “I am on a mission to inspire and empower the next generation of scientists. They are the future decision-makers who will help contribute to the protection of marine mammals in Australia, especially as our human footprint expands into the sea.” I also think it’s the right time for my research to empower others and facilitate cross-collaboration with the science industry at large as well as outside of academia. I want to work with citizen scientists to document things that we, as scientists in the field, can't see from behind a desk. This is having a major impact on my work, being able to translate my sightings into scientific research to create accessible information on species in the ocean that we have limited knowledge about.  The Bryde's whale in Australia is an example of this. Information about this whale through science can be used by the Government when designing Biologically Important Areas so that this species is known about and considered in their plans. And on land, my illegal wildlife detection research is all about safeguarding Australia's wildlife so that we keep our natural environment in check and ensure exotic invasive species stay out! It is all about our actions today for the future of wildlife tomorrow. Has there been a particular experience or encounter that has shaped your work? Yes, becoming a mother. I can't explain it completely but now as a mum in science, it's not all about me, it's about my calves (my two boys). This has enabled me to focus on my work in a way that has maximised what I do and when. My time is even more limited than it used to be, so I want to devote my passion and research to things that will have the most impact. This means asking research questions for the future and using science to help us conserve marine life better.  I chose to stay in Australia after my PhD. My heart is here and so is the future of my children. However, travelling across the globe remains important to me as it opens my eyes to new learning that I can bring back home. I want my work to be respectful, informative and future forward-thinking. I also want to be reflective through my work with First Nation scientists such as the Gamay Rangers, who have an intergenerational connection with the land and sea country around Sydney—this is powerful. What inspired you to focus your work on whales, and what do you find most compelling about them? I have always loved whales. I recall my stack of whale books I had as a child. Much like Sarah & Sebastian’s jewellery, I love the design of whales, how they are shaped, and how they move. Everything about them is so perfectly designed for the marine environment. I find it fascinating how whales navigate the ocean. How does a humpback whale know how to swim from Antarctica, across the Southern Ocean, perhaps over to New Zealand and then to Australia? We don't 100% understand how they do it and I love that. That is why my book, Humpback Highway: Diving into the mysterious world of whales, has the word mysterious in there.  “Much like Sarah & Sebastian’s jewellery, I love the design of whales, how they are shaped, and how they move. I also find it fascinating how whales navigate the ocean. Everything about them is so perfectly designed for the marine environment.” I also find it interesting how they interact with the world around them. Sometimes they come up to boats out of sheer intrigue with zero hostility–what goes through their big heads in that instance? Their rockmelon-sized eyeballs looking at you with such curiosity, it’s a fabulous interaction. I may be a whale scientist but I actually still know so little about them. But this enables me to keep asking questions and to be respectful. You must always be grateful to enjoy the sea and the creatures within it. My research draws connections between whales and the marine environment, and I present it to key decision-makers. Whale behaviour, or where and when they travel, is very much influenced by the world around them. Understanding how this might be affected by climate change is so important to learn about, both now and for our future. Storytelling about this through books and presentations is a great way for people to easily understand just how important this is. “Whale behaviour, or where and when they travel, is very much influenced by the world around them. Understanding how this might be affected by climate change is very important.” Can you tell us about a particular work or project that holds a special place in your heart? Of all the fabulous wildlife research projects I am currently part of, two hold a special place in my heart: my connection with the Kingdom of Tonga and my work with the Gamay Rangers, a local group of Indigenous rangers based here in Sydney. When I first came to Sydney for whale research, I was based at Cape Solander on the south side of Botany Bay—or as I now know it, Gamay—and became part of the whale-watching community. During my research for my book Humpback Highway, senior Ranger, Dr Robert Cooley, warmly invited me to speak with the Indigenous community at La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council, which included many of the local Elders. I shared my story and I had the opportunity to hear from them. It was like being with a big family, I was blown away by the knowledge, stories and insight the group generously shared with me. I'm forever grateful that I could share some of their stories in my book with their permission.  “The humpback whale is a part of the history and heritage of some First Nations people. By learning more about these creatures scientifically and culturally, we are merging science and Indigenous knowledge. Seeing the environment through multiple lenses is so powerful.” This was the start of a fabulous collaborative relationship with the team, which consists of a range of ages and next-generation Rangers. We forged a wonderful partnership, working collaboratively to understand marine mammal occurrences in Gamay (Botany Bay), from fur seal hang-out locations and identifying the local dolphin pod to documenting the presence of humpback whales.  Buriburi, a.k.a the humpback whale, is part of the history and heritage of First Nations people in the area. By learning more about these creatures scientifically and culturally, we are merging science and the Indigenous knowledge of many of the Elders. Working with the Rangers to ask scientific questions and seeing the environment through multiple lenses is so powerful. Is there a random underwater fact that we may not know? It's more of something to be aware of. Sound in the ocean is incredibly interesting. Next time you find yourself underwater, I encourage you to take the time to listen to the sea. What can you hear? The sound of waves breaking, a ship, snapping shrimp, or perhaps dolphins? All whales and dolphins use sound in the sea. Sperm whales and dolphins use high-pitched, high-frequency sounds that travel short distances. Baleen or Toothless whales use low-frequency sounds that go whooop whooop (I love making whale sounds), which travel over kilometres to communicate with other whales, depending on how much other noise there is (i.e. waves or human sounds). Sometimes, we make too much noise and this might limit how much whales can talk to each other.    Of the five senses, which one is most awakened by the sea? Sight for sure! I could watch the sea all day. I have spent many years doing this as a scientist and marine mammal observer in Antarctica. You just never know what you might see on the sea. Off Sydney’s coast, I've witnessed Thresher sharks jump out of the water, a Blue whale that came close to shore, and a sunfish, a.k.a mola mola (my favourite fish which features in my latest children's book, Oceans At Night).  The ocean looks different at different times of the day. It has emotion, sometimes it seems calm and happy, and at other times, mighty and strong. I also love the clean lines as it merges with the horizon. Morning over the ocean is my favourite time. The sunlight illuminates whale breath (or whale snot if you are familiar with my PhD research). Just glorious. “The ocean looks different at different times of the day. It has emotion, sometimes it seems calm and happy, and at other times, mighty and strong.” Which beach or ocean is most special to you? I do have a very special beach in Coffs Harbour, where I lived in my early 20s after my undergraduate studies. It's special for so many reasons: it has been a part of my journey—from working as a dolphin and sea lion trainer to becoming a scientist. I went back there recently with my kids, and it happened to be the same location where a special friend once sighted a Bryde's whale feeding in the surf—a large 16-metre whale in super shallow waters. His photos have since made it into my latest whale research paper.  I love it because it’s secluded and I’m often the only one along the whole stretch of sand when I visit. It is a very special part of the humpback highway, I can picture it right now. If you could share one message about the ocean, what would it be? We are vulnerable to the ocean, please be respectful and grateful for it. While we're here, one simple act you can do is to never release balloons into the sky—what goes up comes down, and often straight into the sea.

As light passes through a precious opal, it bends and scatters into iridescent rainbows known as play-of-colour, making it one of the most visually striking gemstones. Unlike other coloured stones that emit fire and sparkle, opals come alive with a luminous, ethereal glow, revealing a kaleidoscope of patterns that morph with every change of perspective. “Opals are like fragments from another world—they have this incredible depth and energy that you just don't see in any other type of stone,” says Sarah Munro, co-founder and creative director of SARAH & SEBASTIAN. “I’m fascinated by their interplay of colour and light. Their blue hues remind me of the ocean, their patterns of celestial constellations.”  “Opals are like fragments from another world—they have this incredible depth and energy that you just don't see in any other type of stone.”   Aurelia Earrings Sunflash Ring Swirling oceans, neon bursts, mosaic patchworks and cosmic galaxies—every opal holds a miniature world within, frozen in time. “The Harlequin opal is one of my favourites,” Sarah adds. “They are extremely rare and have this painterly, expressive quality, with flashes of red, blue, yellow and green that look like brushstrokes. I remember holding one up to the light for the first time and it transformed in my hand… the colours shifting between fire and ice.”  AUSTRALIA: THE HEART OF THE OPAL While opals can be found across the globe, Australia is home to 95% of the world’s reserves and produces some of the most extraordinary varieties. Thanks to their uniqueness, many Australian opals have been given nicknames: Painted Lady Opals are linked to Andamook in the South, exhibiting a dynamic play-of-colour and linear or swirling patterns resembling brushstrokes on a canvas. Pineapple Opals are unique to White Cliffs in New South Wales, featuring a sculptural, crystalline silhouette akin to the spiked head of a pineapple.  Petrified Wood Opals can be found in Queensland, a fascinating occurrence where organic material like roots and branches are replaced by opal silica over millions of years, creating a fusion of the original wood grain and the iridescent characteristics of opal stones. In Coober Pedy, South Australia, Light Crystal Opals are renowned for their creamy body colour and spectral translucency. "Swirling oceans, neon bursts, mosaic patchworks and cosmic galaxies—every opal holds a miniature world within, frozen in time."  THE LEGEND OF LIGHTNING RIDGE On the edge of New South Wales near Queensland’s border, lies the remote outback town of Lightning Ridge, famed for being the birthplace of prized Australian Black Opals—one of the rarest and most sought-after specimens. Revered for their intense colour and vibrancy, these opals are only extracted through sustainable, small-scale mining practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact and the preservation of surrounding ecosystems.   This is where Sarah sourced opals for six one-of-a-kind pieces in  SARAH & SEBASTIAN’s latest collection, AURELIA. Hand-selecting them for their unique colour arrangements—pinfire constellations, ribboned waves, and translucent glimmers—each piece in this limited offering is a tribute to the rarity of these stones. A celebration of the unrepeatable, solid gold is crafted into monumental shapes, including voluminous signet rings and bold necklace pendants.

Our commitment to ocean conservation is at the heart of everything we do at SARAH & SEBASTIAN and this year we’ve set an ambitious mission for our team: to collect 10,000 pieces of rubbish from Australia’s beaches and waterways by June 2025. Part of our philanthropic Xanthe Project, this initiative reflects our unwavering dedication to safeguarding our oceans and marine life from the devastating impact of excessive waste, particularly plastic. A PURPOSE-DRIVEN MOVEMENT Since December 2024, the SARAH & SEBASTIAN team have collected 1,508 pieces of rubbish from gutters, creeks, and remote beaches around Australia. These small human actions have a profound impact by preventing waste from reaching the ocean, which can endanger marine ecosystems. The challenge is simple: whenever we find ourselves near a waterway, beach, park creek, or even a street gutter (which, sadly, often leads to the ocean), pause and #Take3ForTheSea. This inspiring movement was created by Take 3 for the Sea, one of our Xanthe Project Partners, who have pioneered the idea that small, intentional actions can lead to significant change. Motivated by their mission to reduce plastic pollution, we launched this challenge within SARAH & SEBASTIAN to amplify their efforts. “The other day, I spent about 30 minutes on my bike ride to work pulling rubbish out of the stormwater drains and gutters. And I am so glad I did. I was only able to collect rubbish on one side of the road and about 1/3 of my route. I believe we can make a lot of impact tackling the street gutters before all the rubbish reaches our beaches.”   A FEW SURPRISING FINDS Among the hundreds of pieces collected so far, a number have stood out for their unusual nature. Here are just a few of the memorable items discovered: - A plastic axe handle from Halloween- A lipstick- Two fishing bait bags- An old DVD- A silver necklace, bracelet, and fork- A felt-tip pen- A Scrabble tile- Swimwear-Gloves While these items may seem trivial, their removal prevents further harm to wildlife and ecosystems. Every piece, no matter how small, makes a difference. “I collected from the Royal National Park over the weekend, it was crazy how much rubbish there was even on such remote beaches. It’s so sad to think all of this was on its way to our oceans.” JOIN US ON OUR MISSION We officially kicked off our efforts at the beginning of Australia’s summer season and are building momentum toward our annual cleanup event on 28th February 2025, which coincides with Clean Up Australia Day. This event is a cornerstone of our mission, but the journey doesn’t stop there. We invite you, our community to join us in making an impact. Simply collect three or more pieces of rubbish each time you visit a beach, waterway, or even urban areas where waste can find its way to the ocean. “I managed to collect 30 pieces of rubbish at the beach this morning with the help of my little assistant (my 5-year-old, Tate)... It's going to be our mission every time we're by the ocean.”