Conversations with wildlife conservationist, Bella Davis

For us, the sea is more than a backdrop - it is part of our story. Our first conversation is with Bella Davis, a marine conservationist whose work is grounded in protecting the wild beauty of our oceans and the life within them. Drawn by curiosity, care, and a deep respect for the natural world, Bella shares the moments that shaped her path, the lessons she has gathered from years in the wild, and why the future of our coastline is worth fighting for.

Photographed on Heron Island, Queensland by @rosslongphoto. Bella is wearing our Bennett One-Piece in Freddie Marine.

Can you take us back to the moment you first felt truly connected to the natural world, and how that path unfolded into the work you do today?

My connection to nature began early. I travelled to Africa as a child, and seeing animals in their natural habitat was unlike anything I had experienced before. It moved beyond books or screens - it was real, immediate, and unforgettable. That trip sparked something in me: a desire to protect wildlife and the environments they depend on.

I also grew up by the ocean, always drawn to the water and happiest when I was in it. Later, I studied Environmental Sustainability in California, but after graduating, I wasn’t sure where that would lead. I booked a one-way ticket to Australia with no real plan. Six years on, I’m still here and that decision shaped everything.

Where has this path led you and what does your work look like now?

Once I decided to pursue wildlife conservation in Australia, I continued my studies with a TAFE course in wildlife management and completed placement at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. After years of study and volunteering, I began working with koalas and native wildlife, sharing knowledge through encounters and education. I’ve now been doing this for three years.

Alongside that, I work as a snorkel guide on a local reef, spending time in the water with an incredible diversity of marine life. My days are immersed in wildlife — both professionally and personally. It’s where I feel most connected.

When you're out in the field on land or in the water, what's something you notice that most people don't slow down enough to see? And how has all that time in wild places shaped the way you move through the world?

Nature teaches us so many lessons, and one is to slow down. People often expect to see things instantly, but with wildlife you need patience, and a bit of luck, for the encounters worth waiting for. After years of admiring all kinds of life, I'm still amazed. It has rubbed off on the way I live too. I have learned to notice the small moments, prioritise a slower and healthier life, let the days revolve around nature and wildlife. 

Nature holds both immense beauty and vulnerability. What has working so closely with wildlife taught you about perspective, resilience, or what truly matters?

Working with wildlife has taught me to live in the moment and not take anything for granted. Life is so precious, and seeing the circle of life can be confronting, but it’s also the reality of nature. I’ve seen things like turtle hatchlings being eaten by sharks or seabirds, and zebras being taken down by predators. As heartbreaking as that can be, it’s part of the balance of the ecosystem.

What’s harder are the increasing human-caused threats. I’ve seen whales and turtles getting entangled in nets, and koalas and kangaroos hit by cars. That’s why I’m passionate about spreading awareness — whether it’s slowing down on roads or supporting things like banning shark nets. I want to connect people with wildlife and help them understand the importance of protecting them.

This work can feel emotionally heavy at times. What keeps you hopeful, grounded, and continuing forward?

It can definitely be heavy at times, especially when many of the threats are human-caused. I try to stay positive because I believe it’s not too late and that every single person can make a difference in protecting our planet.

As someone deeply connected to the environment, what do you look for when choosing the brands you wear and support - and what feels like real effort versus distraction in the sustainability conversation?

I look for small businesses using sustainable, ethically sourced materials. In an era when it's so easy to buy from big manufacturers and fast fashion, being mindful of where things come from matters. I think we can always do better for the planet, but the small things compound. The amount of plastic on the beaches and in the ocean can feel overwhelming, but a keep cup at the coffee shop, a reusable bag at the supermarket, supporting local businesses — those daily choices add up.

What are the small rituals or moments  in nature or in daily life, that bring you the deepest sense of calm?

Going for a daily swim, surf, or dive always brings me instant joy. Movement like pilates or a long walk along the beach are some of my favourite ways to reconnect with myself and my purpose.

Do you have a nostalgic memory that still feels vivid — one you can almost smell or hear when you return to it?

I have so many nostalgic memories from growing up in nature. One that comes to mind is visiting family in Hawaii - waking up to the sound of tropical rain on the roof, the smell of island flowers, and the feeling of salt water on my skin after a big day at the beach.

My aunt and uncle live on Oahu, and we used to visit every spring. I remember always telling myself that when I grew up, I wanted to live somewhere like that. Australia feels like a bigger version of Hawaii, which is why I love it here so much.

What did summer feel like to you growing up?

Summer in California was very similar to Australia, just a little less muggy. I spent my holidays by the beach or travelling with my family, always in nature. Living on the other side of the world has made me appreciate those moments more - especially time with family and the marine environments I grew up around.

One day, I’d love to live between Australia and California (and maybe Hawaii), spending as much time as possible with loved ones and by the ocean.

What's a small moment you wish you could relive again and again - like a seashell you keep in your pocket?

Diving with humpback whales in French Polynesia is definitely a moment I’ll relive forever. There was a time when a curious calf swam right up to me making eye contact and feeling that connection brought instant tears to my eyes. It’s something I’ll never forget.

If you could pass on one feeling or lesson from the wild - from the ocean, the animals, the natural world - to others, what would you hope they carry with them?

Sea turtles are one of my favourite marine species. I love watching them float in the ocean, going with the flow of the current and coming up every now and then for a breath. They remind us not to stress too much - to breathe, trust the process, and move with the flow of life.

You can follow Bella's journey via Instagram at @bella_jasmine - a window into the wild places she calls home.