Melinda Coleman, a leading marine scientist and geneticist, is on a mission to unlock the secrets of the Great Southern Reef. With her expertise in next-generation sequencing technologies and a deep passion for marine ecosystems, she is paving the way for innovative research and conservation strategies. Coleman's work not only sheds light on the intricate genetic makeup of kelp and seaweeds but also explores their vital role in maintaining the health and resilience of the Great Southern Reef. She is interpreting the language of marine ecosystems and transforming these insights into actionable conservation efforts. Her career as a marine geneticist and now Principal Research Scientist with Regional NSW, Department of Primary Industries, has led her to uncover significant, yet often overlooked, marine environmental challenges.