During 13 days aboard CSIRO’s research vessel Investigator, students gained hands-on experience across ocean science fields including physical oceanography, marine biogeochemistry, biology, ecology, and geoscience.

Students also conducted real-world research such as sampling Bremer Canyon, investigating harmful algal blooms, and contributing to underwater cultural heritage surveys.

Miss Mason said the experience not only built technical skills but gave her a powerful insight into the scale, rigor, and impact of modern marine science.

The 20-year-old said CAPSTAN strengthened her interest in multidisciplinary marine science, shipboard research, operational oceanography, and field-based science. Miss Mason can be quoted as saying:

“The voyage was truly incredible. I gained valuable hands-on, real-world experience in marine science and fieldwork while being directly involved in research activities at sea. It has been a very rewarding learning experience and has further strengthened my interest in marine ecosystems and Antarctic and Southern Ocean biodiversity. More than anything, it confirmed for me that this is genuinely the environment and direction I want to pursue professionally.”