Meet Caroline Gilbertson

Caroline is the Environment and Sustainability coordinator for Aquaculture NZ. A significant part of her role is the management of the A+ Sustainability programme - an industry led initiative designed to replicate international accredited environmental certifications to drive continuous improvement across the NZ aquaculture industry. She is also involved in the biosecurity work completed by AQNZ.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

“ I love that I get to work with such a broad variety of people. I also love learning about the incredible things people are doing in this industry. It is an exciting industry to be a part of and I truly value that I get to be involved. ”

How did you come to be involved in aquaculture?

“ I discovered aquaculture when I was studying marine biology. I always knew I wanted to work in the ocean and be a diver, but it wasn’t until I was doing my classes that I caught the aquaculture bug! I fell in love with the science of aquaculture, RAS, and fish physiology. I also was totally taken with the sustainability of aquaculture in NZ! ”

Why do you think WoAA is important?

“ For many years now I have been having conversations with colleagues and industry around the lack of such a group in NZ. It became increasingly clear that there was a strong desire for the sort of networking, support, and friendship that can come from groups such as these. I feel strongly that the achievements and mahi of women in our sector should be celebrated. There are some incredible women I have met along the way and I would love to tell their stories! It has been a privilege to be a part of starting this community and I can wait to watch it grow. “

What is something you are passionate about?

“ Fish!!

A particular passion of mine is fish physiology and welfare. It can sound a bit morbid, but the physiology and science of health, welfare, and pain is an area where I am extremely passionate. I don’t think we talk about the welfare of aquatic animals enough and the practices and legislation world wide are far behind those of terrestrial animals. I am also wholly fascinated by aquatic animal physiology - how they breathe, move, breed, eat, sleep, the list goes on. The science is absolutely fascinating! “

Do you have any advice or support for women working in or looking to work in aquaculture in Aotearoa?

“ Take opportunities whenever you can. I have had a unique road within this industry and I attribute it entirely to my willingness to take chances and opportunities. Try new things, be brave and go to new places and roles, and be curious! You will meet amazing people along the way and have some great stories to tell afterwards, even about the things that didn’t work out! “

What is your favourite seafood?

“ Scallops…. I could eat scallops every day of my life and not get bored of them. However I must admit, there still hasn’t been a any kai moana I have tried and not liked! I will eat it all “

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“ Honestly I have too many hobbies. One of my main hobbies is painting, but I also love my diving, tramping, gardening, gaming, and movies! I wish there were more hours in the day. “