This Is What I’m Here For

Artist Statement

My work at the Cairns Showgrounds focuses on plastic pollution in our oceans, and that changing this huge issue starts with each of us.

It’s easy to get a sense of the severe impact of plastics, rising ocean temperatures, and coral bleaching when it’s visible in places like the Great Barrier Reef, but it’s our day to day consumption, often very far removed from the water and coast, that needs to change just as drastically.

The phrase ‘This Is What I’m Here For’ was created to call on each viewer to consider their own purpose and role in what is polluting and impacting our oceans. The changes we need to make are about adjusting before the damage is irreversible, through small, constant, conscious decisions that look to the future rather than what is immediately convenient.

The Focus

Take Action

Reduce your own plastic footprint by

• Using a reusable water bottle and avoiding drinks bottled in plastic
• Bringing your own bag, cup, utensils, straw, etc.
• Shopping in bulk, reducing packaging waste
• Choosing reusable and compostable goods over less sustainable materials