5 January 2009

A passionate and dedicated marine science pioneer has been recognised for her contribution to the field, with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) today announcing a reef named in her honour.

Isobel Bennett’s immense contribution to coral reef research is formally recognised with a previously unnamed Reef (Reef No 21-505) now bearing her name.

GBRMPA Chairman Russell Reichelt said Isobel Bennett, who passed away last year, made an immense contribution to our understanding of coral reefs.

“We are delighted to recognise Isobel Bennett’s contribution to marine science by naming a reef in her honour – it is a fitting way to ensure her important legacy to marine science lives on,” he said.

“Isobel was a quiet achiever but her impact on Australian marine science cannot be underestimated. She spent 40 years with the University of Sydney where she was involved in teaching and fieldwork.

“Her extensive field experience along the east coast and in the laboratory helped her assist the university’s students, many of whom went on to become leading scientists.

“Isobel was well regarded for her knowledge and achievements. She was innovative and dedicated to her work and paved the way for other women in what was at the time a very male-dominated field.

“Those who knew her personally and professionally were impressed by her hard work, determination, attention to detail, and never-ending curiosity.”

Among those who knew Isobel’s commitment to marine science are Richard Kenchington and Len Zell, who initially approached the GBRMPA to name a reef after her.

“Having known Isobel personally, it gives me great satisfaction to see her outstanding achievements recognised in this way,” Dr Kenchington said.

“She was a real pioneer in marine science and was a fantastic friend, colleague and leader.”

Isobel Bennett Reef is located in the Mackay/Capricorn Management Area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – it is Reef No 21-505 located at Lat -21.708°S Long 152.355°E.

The reef was officially named after an assessment under a formal process and principles for reef naming.

The submission was assessed by the GBRMPA, the Royal Australian Navy - Australian Hydrographic Office, the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Water.

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The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is the principal advisor to the Australian Government, through the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts on the care, development and management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.  The Authority works in partnership with other government agencies, industry, community groups and individuals to help preserve the social, economic and environmental values of the Great Barrier Reef.

Media enquiries: Sara Trenerry - (07) 4750 0882. Following is a biography for Isobel Bennett. A map of Isobel Bennett Reef and a photograph of Isobel Bennett are available on request.


Biography: Isobel Bennett

Isobel Bennett was born in Brisbane in 1909 and left school at 16 to work as a secretary.  

Her life changed forever when, in 1933, she accompanied her sister on a cruise to Norfolk Island and met marine professor William Dakin and his wife.

Impressed by her attitude and abilities, he offered her a position as a research assistant at the University of Sydney where she plotted shipmasters' logged positions of whales for a book he was writing.

She continued to assist Professor Dakin in his work until his death in 1950, and in 1952 completed his book on Australian beaches.

Isobel went on to work for the University for 40 years as a secretary, departmental librarian, research assistant, and demonstrator.

In 1966 she was awarded an honorary master of science from the University of Sydney, in recognition of her work in the marine sciences. In 1995 she received an honorary doctor of science from the University of Sydney.

Her extensive field experience both along the east coast and in the laboratory meant Isobel was uniquely positioned to assist the university’s students, many of who went on to become leading scientists.

She was one of the first females in her field to travel widely, paving the way for other women in the marine sciences.

Her first solo book Fringe of the Sea was published in 1966, followed by several others throughout the 1960s and 70s about her studies of coral reefs. She received the Royal Zoological Society Whitley Award for several of the books she authored.
In 1982 the Australian and New Zealand Association for Advancement of Science awarded Isobel the Mueller Medal, and this was followed in 1984 by her recognition as an Officer of the Order of Australia for her services to marine biology.

After her retirement, Isobel ensured all of her books, resources and research materials were made available to the public for teaching and research purposes.

The bulk of her collection was donated to the National Library, and the Queensland Museum also received some of her work. Other resources were donated to Pittwater Council, aiding the construction of the Long Reef interpretative facilities.

Isobel Bennett died on 14 January 2008 in Sydney, aged 98.