Jan is a biologist and acclaimed wildlife filmmaker living on North Stradbroke Island. She has a Bachelor of Science in Botany and Zoology and an Honours degree in freshwater ecology. She completed her doctorate on angelfish on the Great Barrier Reef.

Jan and her partner Glen Carruthers have travelled the world for their photography and documentary film work and have contributed to many David Attenborough series. They are best known for their landmark film, Kangaroos-faces in the mob.

Living on a picturesque sand island, rich in biodiversity, freshwater lakes and lagoons and surrounded by marine park, Jan is passionate about the wise management of the island’s environment.

Jan first became involved in community action over the island’s water during the millennium drought when a doubling of water export from the island’s aquifer was proposed. She continues to be heavily involved in environmental management issues.