The following biographies reflect the presenters’ roles and titles at the time of the 2017 Wild Salmon Symposium. Some roles may have changed since.
Dave Willis
Biologist, Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Dave Willis worked on the planning and assessment of salmon populations with Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans. He brought valuable international insight into salmon management and restoration efforts, particularly from the Pacific Northwest.
Dr Tom Quinn
Professor of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington
Dr Tom Quinn was a leading authority on the behaviour, ecology, evolution, and conservation of salmon and trout. His extensive academic research has helped shape modern understanding of salmonid lifecycles and management.
Dr Duncan Gray
Senior Ecologist, Environment Canterbury
Dr Duncan Gray specialised in aquatic invertebrate diversity and its relationship to stream health. His work provided a broader ecological perspective on freshwater habitat quality and its role in supporting salmon populations.
Rasmus Gabrielsson
Freshwater Biologist, Cawthron Institute
Based at Nelson’s Cawthron Institute, Rasmus Gabrielsson focused on aquatic ecology, zoology, and evolutionary biology. His expertise supported evidence-based management of freshwater ecosystems across New Zealand.
Dr Mike Joy
Senior Lecturer in Ecology and Environmental Science, Massey University
Dr Mike Joy was an outspoken advocate for freshwater protection and a leading voice on the ecological impacts of nutrient pollution. His research highlighted the links between land use, water quality, and the health of fish populations.
Mark Geytenbeek
Fisheries Analyst, Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)
Mark joined the former Ministry of Fisheries (MFish) in 2007 and contributed to numerous projects, including national fish plan development and South Island TAC reviews. Around the time of the symposium, he was involved in the development of the National Blue Cod Strategy and improving fisheries management engagement, including with the Chatham Islands.
Mark Webb
Fish & Game Officer, Central South Island Fish & Game
Mark Webb was responsible for monitoring harvest data, regulations, and species management across the Central South Island region. His field knowledge supported data-driven decision making for the salmon fishery.
Steve Terry
Fish & Game Officer, North Canterbury Fish & Game
Steve Terry monitored the salmon fishery in North Canterbury and worked closely with landowners to protect key spawning streams. His responsibilities also included water quality monitoring and habitat protection.
Hamish Stevens
Fish & Game Officer, Central South Island Fish & Game
Hamish was involved in game bird research and management, habitat advocacy, and compliance. His work played a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and enforcement across the region.
Scott Pearson
Environmental Advisor, North Canterbury Fish & Game
Scott Pearson led Fish & Game’s environmental advocacy through the Resource Management Act. At the time, he was the region’s spokesperson for environmental issues affecting sports fish and game habitats.
Dirk Barr
Hatchery and Compliance Manager, North Canterbury Fish & Game
Dirk Barr managed the Montrose, Whiskey Creek, and Peacock Springs hatcheries and had over 25 years of experience in salmon and trout enhancement. He played a role in both compliance and hatchery operations.
Phillip de Joux
Chairman, McKinnons Salmon Hatchery Trust
A passionate salmon angler and past President of the South Canterbury Salmon Anglers, Phillip chaired the Rangitata River–based McKinnons Salmon Hatchery Trust. His long-standing involvement made him a respected voice in the angling community.
Tony Hawker
Fish & Game Officer, North Canterbury Fish & Game
Tony was responsible for trout fishery management and worked on resource consent processes. As the region’s former Environmental Officer until 2012, he brought deep experience in environmental law and planning.
Dr Phil Jellyman
Freshwater Ecologist, NIWA Christchurch
Dr Phil Jellyman was recognised for his work on how river flow regimes influence freshwater fish communities. His research supported the understanding of how hydrology affects fish population dynamics.