GEORGE EVATT

Professional diver, underwater documentary maker & marine life educator 

George’s love affair with the ocean began over 30 years ago. Always a keen swimmer, it was when snorkelling around a small island off the South Coast of NSW, that he became truly captivated.  “I was amazed by the brilliant blue water, the gently swaying kelp and the incredible diversity of life. I did my dive course and have been in the sea ever since”.

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From Alaska to Antarctica, George has filmed amazing things - from massive whales to the tiniest plankton. His passion became a platform for teaching others about the great mysteries and diversity of marine life. Initially presenting to adult groups, in 2003 George began inspiring school groups with his engaging presentations.

Equally inspired, George is continually motivated by the genuine interest and enthusiasm that young people have for the natural world around them. “Their wonder and curiosity is contagious. I strive to inspire them and always want to pose more questions than can be answered. Many students write to me about how they have enjoyed the presentations.”

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To date, George has brought the wonder of the underwater world to over 150,000 students– imparting its stillness, silence and physical beauty. Students are invited to investigate and explore another world, full of extraordinary animals who go about their lives oblivious to the human world above. “As you float through the watery space you’re a visitor in another world. For instance, the octopus, my favourite animal, is so alien and unusual. It is completely antisocial and yet very curious and intelligent. You can teach an octopus tricks like unscrewing jars. They can even learn to solve complex mazes. They are the supreme invertebrate animal.”

His enthusiasm and passion is an inspiration to students to become explorers and protectors of the world’s oceans. “The Oceans are endlessly inspiring and beautiful. They are also vitally important to us and even though they are unimaginably vast, science is now revealing that they are also fragile and we know humans are having a big impact on marine ecosystems worldwide. I want to raise awareness of the ocean's beauty, diversity and hopefully alert students to some of the major issues facing the world’s oceans.”

Examples of George's work

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