Family, Skippers, Marine Biologists

The people you'll
spend the morning with.

Every one of us grew up on this water — or moved here specifically for it. We are not a rota of casual staff. This is our family business, and every trip out is personal.

Meet the skippers, marine biologists and crew

Angus Steeles

Family

Angus Steeles

Captain · Founder

  • Raised in Ballina
  • Master 5 skipper
  • Surfing & boating

Captain / Founder Angus was raised in Ballina with a lifelong connection to the ocean. Growing up in and around the water, Angus developed a deep passion for the sea, surfing, boating, and the incredible marine life found along our coastline.

With years of experience on local waters, he loves sharing that passion with others by creating memorable experiences at sea. Whether it's spotting whales, exploring the coastline, or simply enjoying time on the water, Angus is proud to showcase the natural beauty of the Northern Rivers to locals and visitors alike.

Ask about
the best swell on this coast, and where the whales tend to sit on a glassy morning.

Cori Steeles

Family

Cori Steeles

Manager · Co-founder

  • Raised in Lennox Head
  • Bookings & guest care
  • Surfer

Cori, Manager / Co-founder of Ballina Byron Marine Adventures, raised in Lennox Head, where a lifelong connection to the ocean began early. Growing up surfing, exploring the coastline, and embracing an active outdoor lifestyle, Cori developed a deep appreciation for the sea, the waves, and everything this region has to offer.

Now raising a family in Ballina, Cori remains passionate about surfing, life on the water, and sharing the beauty of the Northern Rivers coast and the lifestyle she grew up with.

Ask about
growing up on this coastline — and the best coffee in Ballina before a morning departure.

Sayla Steeles

Family

Sayla Steeles

Next-generation crew

  • Next generation
  • Future captain
  • Grew up on board

Sayla is the youngest member of the Ballina Byron Marine Adventures crew and an up-and-coming skipper in the making. Growing up around boats, beaches, and the ocean, Sayla is already developing a love for life on the water and the coastal lifestyle. With the sea in her blood and adventure all around her, she's proudly next generation crew and future captain material.

Ask about
her favourite spot on the boat, and the first whale she ever saw.

Ellie Cameron

Science

Ellie Cameron

Marine Biologist · Skipper

  • Master of Marine Biology
  • 6 years on the water
  • Dive skipper, Byron Bay

Marine Biologist & Skipper Ellie was raised in the Northern Rivers and has always shared a strong connection with the ocean. Growing up surfing and exploring the local coastline, Ellie has spent the past six years studying and working on the water.

With a Master's degree in Marine Biology and research experience across remote Western Australia, Ellie has recently returned home to help inspire appreciation for the incredible marine life and biodiversity found right here on our doorstep. Ellie also works in the local dive industry, Skippering & guiding guests on scuba diving experiences in Byron Bay. Ellie is passionate about sharing knowledge, love for the ocean, and unforgettable wildlife experiences with guests onboard.

Ask about
marine research in remote Western Australia and the biodiversity right off our own beaches.

Emma Pegg

Science

Emma Pegg

Marine Biologist · Guide

  • Marine & environmental scientist
  • Underwater photographer
  • From Aotearoa

Originally from Aotearoa (New Zealand), Emma moved to the Northern Rivers several years ago, drawn by the region's spectacular coastline and marine life. Emma is a marine biologist, environmental scientist, underwater photographer, and experienced marine wildlife guide. After recently completing a lap of Australia, she spent several years exploring the country's coast through diving, surfing, photography, and conservation work.

As part of the Ballina Byron Marine Adventures team, Emma loves helping guests connect with the whales, dolphins, turtles, and other incredible wildlife found along the Ballina and Byron Bay coastline. She is passionate about inspiring a deeper appreciation and care for our oceans and waterways.

Ask about
underwater photography, and what a lap of Australia teaches you about our oceans.

Zoe White

Science

Zoe White

Marine Scientist · Whale Spotter

  • Marine Science & Management
  • PADI instructor since 19
  • OzFish habitat restoration

Marine Science & Management graduate and PADI instructor since 19. Manages OzFish habitat restoration across the North Coast — oyster reefs, seagrass, wetlands. Nothing makes her happier than being out here sharing what she knows.

Ask about
oyster reefs, seagrass and how habitat restoration brings a river back to life.