From seagrass meadows to airport art, CMERC inspires

By Lucy Stafford

CQUniversity’s Coastal Marine Ecosystems Research Centre (CMERC) has helped bring the stories of Gladstone’s coastal ecosystems to life at Gladstone Airport, through a unique installation created by local artist Katrina Elliott.

As part of the Local Artists, Local Stories pilot project, Ms Elliott began the residency in January by spending time with CMERC researchers, learning about seagrass meadows, dugongs and the science behind coastal ecology. 

In February, she translated those insights into an interactive pop-up studio space at Gladstone Airport, inviting travellers, locals and visitors to engage with the region’s marine story in a hands-on way. The residency was originally planned as a two-week installation but was extended to four weeks due to strong public interest and engagement.

Ms Elliott said her time at CMERC was invaluable.

“Spending time at CMERC wasn’t about creating finished artworks, it was about listening, learning and being guided by researchers who are at the forefront of seagrass science and coastal ecosystem restoration,” Ms Elliott said.

“It was incredibly rewarding to advocate through the arts, especially seeing travellers pause, get curious and even stamp their own art postcards as a way of connecting with the story.”

During the residency, Ms Elliott created a diverse range of handmade artworks and products available to purchase, including notebooks, t-shirts, coasters, earrings and table napkins. Visitors were also invited to take part in interactive activities, including creating postcards inspired by the marine animals that rely on seagrass meadows.

CMERC, based on the shores of Gladstone Marina, is led by Centre Director Professor Emma Jackson, a Research Fellow in Seagrass Ecology and President of the World Seagrass Association. 

Professor Jackson brings more than 20 years of expertise in seagrass restoration and coastal ecosystem management.

“Our research is about finding ways for humans and nature to thrive together on our coasts,” Prof Jackson said.

“It was fantastic to see this science informing Katrina’s work. 

“Art is a powerful way to spark curiosity and conversation about our seagrass meadows, marine life and the role healthy ecosystems play in human wellbeing. 

“I was very excited to see her learnings come to life in the form of art.”

Ms Elliot’s residency demonstrates the power of collaboration between science and the arts. While the exhibition has now concluded, the residency highlighted how research can inspire creativity, conversation and a deeper connection to place.

CMERC’s research spans marine conservation, ecosystem services and sustainable coastal development, with projects that directly inform policy, restoration and community engagement. Seagrass meadows support endangered dugongs, turtles and a host of marine species, while also playing a vital role in water quality and carbon storage. The seagrass restoration project SeaGrow at CMERC is funded through the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

The Local Artists, Local Stories project supports local arts and culture in regional Queensland. The project is proudly supported by CQUniversity CMERC, Gladstone Airport Corporation, and the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Gladstone Regional Council.