KZ: Hi Ricky! What has the 1 Million Turtles program achieved so far?

R: The 1 Million Turtles program is super cool! Last year, people saved over 1000 turtles from roads and protected more than 200 turtle nests. This is important because turtles can live for almost 100 years and have lots of baby turtles. By helping them cross the road, we save thousands of baby turtles in their lifetime! It's also a fun way to meet wildlife. Turtles might be a bit smelly, but they hardly ever bite. You can learn how to help at 1MillionTurtles.com. When you're in the car with your parents and see a turtle on the road, ask them to stop and move it to safety. Don't forget to tell TurtleSAT about it too!

KZ: Are you currently researching any other topics or working on any projects?

R: Absolutely, I have some exciting projects to share! I'm teaming up with WIRES, amazing volunteers who help injured animals get better. We're also partnering with the Australian Reptile Park to make sure our rare turtles have lots of babies through special programs. But here's something super cool: I'm working with Transport for NSW on tools that can tell drivers if there are animals on the road. It helps keep animals safe! Plus, I'm working with clever engineers to see if a special stuff called "zeolite" can clean up our rivers by soaking up bad stuff like pollution. Lots of adventures in the animal and nature world!

KZ: Did you study any subjects or courses, take part in any activities, or have any hobbies as a child that gave you skills you use at work? 

R: When I was younger, my main passion was my love for animals. I had a job cleaning cages for birds and rabbits at a local pet store when I was just 12 years old. Over time, I even became the manager of the store and an aquarium. I kept working there throughout high school and university. Interestingly, I didn't start studying veterinary science right away. It was only when I got to university that I discovered all the exciting options in the world of science and conservation. This taught me an important lesson: it's okay if your first choice doesn't work out; being adaptable and exploring new paths can lead to amazing opportunities in the future. So, don't worry if things change along the way!

KZ: Can K-Zoners help the 1 Million Turtles program in any way? 

R: K-Zoners, you can be a big help to the 1 Million Turtles program and other conservation projects! Here's what you can do!

Learn About Turtles: Start by learning about turtles and the environment. The more you know, the better you can help!

Be Turtle Heroes: If you see a turtle on the road, ask a grown-up for help and move it to safety. Always be careful and gentle.

Download TurtleSAT: Get the TurtleSAT app! It's super cool. You can see where people have spotted turtles all across Australia and check out awesome photos they've taken. It's like a turtle treasure hunt!

Visit 1MillionTurtles.com: Stay up to date on exciting turtle news and conservation projects by visiting 1MillionTurtles.com. There's always something new to discover!

Spot Turtles: Use the app to find places where turtles have been seen. Then, go out with your family and look for turtles in those areas. Remember, be safe and respectful to nature.

Spread the Word: Tell your friends and family about the app and how you're helping turtles. The more people join, the more turtles we can save!

Prepare for Turtles in Schools: Keep an eye out because turtles are coming to schools very soon. You'll have a chance to learn even more about these amazing creatures!

By using the TurtleSAT app, staying informed on 1MillionTurtles.com, and taking action in your community, you can become a superhero for turtles and the environment. Let's protect these incredible creatures and their homes!

Want to read the full interview with Ricky? Grab the November 2023 ‘Spooky Battle Royale’ issue of K-Zone, on sale now!