As a Young Marine Biologist, you will gain both personal and professional insights into the marine science world. Led by local marine biologists, this hands-on, program is designed for students aged 14–18. Over monthly in-person sessions, you’ll learn what it’s really like to be a marine biologist, through practical activities, science experiments, and creative exploration of ocean ecosystems
You will have the opportunity to:
- Connect with working marine biologists and like-minded students
- Explore lab environments and behind-the-scenes research spaces (with possible field trips)
- Learn how scientists conduct fieldwork, track marine animals, and build environmental knowledge
- Collect and analyse real data like water samples and species observations
- Understand how marine science informs climate action and biodiversity protection
- Discover how scientists share their findings with the public and the scientific community
- Contribute to real-world marine research and education projects
Commitment
Young Marine Biologists need to commit to monthly 2-hour face-to-face workshops for a 11-month period from February– December 2026. You need to be able to attend all sessions.
Dates
We will commence the program together for a special introductory session on Saturday 28 February,10am-2pm, pizza included.
All following sessions held on the first Tuesday of each month, after school – 4.30-6.30pm (2 hours).
Note: there may be date changes to accommodate guest experts and unique opportunities on occasion.
Location
Harry Bailey Memorial Library, Yarrila Place & field trips on occasion.
27 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
Cost
$190 for 2026 (11 Sessions)
If you would like to discuss a payment plan, please contact us (details below).
Applications are Open
Participants will need to complete an enrolment form. If you need assistance filling out the enrolment form or would like to discuss the program or ask questions, please contact Library Programs team (details below).
library.programs@chcc.nsw.gov.au
Subject: Young Marine Biologists Enrolment Enquiry
Please Note: Age guidelines are firm. This is a pathway program to explore possible careers in Marine Science, as such the technical level aligns with school science education and is not suitable for persons under the age of 14. If you are interested in opportunities for younger people in marine science, please express interest to the above email address.
Apply for Young Marine Biologists 2026 >
Join us for a taster workshop ahead of the upcoming Young Marine Biologists program, starting February 2026.
Wondering if Young Marine Biologists is for you? Why not join us for this two-hour workshop that will give you a taste of what the program has to offer. As a Young Marine Biologist, you will gain both personal and professional insights into the world of marine science. Led by local marine biologists, this hands-on workshop is designed for students aged 14–18. Following the workshop, applications will stay open to new students to join the Young Marine Biologists program.
Workshop Details
Date: Monday 19 January 2026
Time: 11.30am- 1.30pm
Ages: 14-18 years
Cost: $20 per person
Location: Make Space, Level 1, Yarrila Place
Note: This taster is for students new to the program. Students from the 2025 program (July-December) should not register for the taster.
Bookings for taster workshop here!
Have some more questions? Feel free to reach out!
Email: library.programs@chcc.nsw.gov.au