SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium Appoints New Displays Curator

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: October 24, 2020 10:30 pm

Laura Simmons with a shark

Photo Credit: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium has appointed a female as their displays coordinator for the first time in their 32 year history. Laura Simmons will take on the role which sees her ensuring the highest standard of welfare and spearheading conservation initiatives.

She becomes one of only two female displays curators at SEA LIFE Aquariums in Australia. Laura has 30 years of experience working in aquariums and is a self-proclaimed “aquarium nerd.”

The role sees Laura overseeing the development of amazing habitats and displays and leading a team of 65 specialists and curators. Her role also involves creating and implementing conservation and sustainability projects that align with SEA LIFE Trust charity initiatives and campaigns.

Laura Simmons will become displays curator

Photo Credit: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Laura will also take on the role of Displays Curator ANZ which will see her lead displays, engagement, conservation and welfare practices across Australia and New Zealand.

“I feel so fortunate to be here, to work with such a fantastic organisation at Australia’s largest and best aquarium. We not only want to create great experiences and memories at our attractions, but leave a positive, lasting impact on the world,” said Laura Simmons, Displays Curator of SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.

“Laura is an expert when it comes to all things systems, welfare, sustainability, logistics and ethics, and we’re excited to have her join us here at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium,” Richard Dilly, General Manager of Merlin Entertainments Darling Harbour Attractions.

Laura Simmons with a gulf sturgeon

Photo Credit: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

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Laura has a wealth of experience in the aquarium industry. She started her career at Sea World in Orlando where she worked for 16 years rising up to become the manager of the Aquarium Department for Discovery Cove. Following this she moved on to became the Life Sciences Manager at Landry’s Inc., overseeing the development of aquariums for the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Following this she spent a decade with Cairns Marine as a Curator/Project Manager.

Laura Simmons with a ray

Photo Credit: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

“With her enthusiasm, passion, credibility and knowledge, I am extremely confident that she will be an absolute asset to the team and help bring to life innovative ideas and experiences to bring guests closer than ever before to the wonders of the marine world,” added Dilly.

Laura will step in the role which was vacated by Chris Brown who has returned to the UK after completing a 2 year secondment at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. During his time at the aquarium he oversaw development of the Great Barrier Reef-inspired Day and Night on the Reef Zone, and implemented several conservation projects such as the critical White’s Seahorse conservation breeding program.

Learn more about Sea Life Sydney Aquarium on their website – SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium