Our Team

Lauren Thorburn | BSc (Hons)
Principal Ecologist
Lauren has worked as a professional ecological consultant for over 17 years.   Lauren has led or provided specialist technical input to over 50 environmental impact assessments relating to aquatic ecology across a range of industries, geographical areas and ecosystem types (including marine / coastal, estuarine and freshwater).  She is also skilled at the practical application of relevant scientific techniques and intelligent application of Government policies, particularly in relation to Project approvals and ongoing monitoring programs.  Lauren is an active member of a variety of professional societies and is a Certified Environmental Practitioner (CEnvP). Lauren is a Founding Member of ESP.




Liz West | BSc (Hons) | PhD
Principal Ecologist
Liz has worked as a specialist ecological consultant in Hong Kong and Queensland for more than 15 years. During this time, she has gained experience in all aspects of aquatic ecological consulting and has worked with a range of clients from government, industry and community groups. She has extensive experience in experimental and monitoring program design, fieldwork and site inspections, laboratory protocols, data analysis, reporting and project management. Liz provides value to our projects through her ability to resolve complex issues and present clear and intelligible results. Liz excels in her ability to communicate science effectively, having authored scientific papers in international journals and presented consulting and research results at national and international conferences.




Kate Keating | BSc (Hons)
Senior Ecologist
Since joining ESP in 2016, Kate has cemented her place as a critical team member and is following her passion to make a difference in the world. Kate has an exemplary academic track record and has applied her knowledge while leading a variety of scientific assessments in marine, estuarine and freshwater ecosystems. She actively seeks opportunities to demonstrate her superior leadership and management skills. Kate is skilled in all aspects of aquatic ecological consulting, including leading data collection, laboratory processing, data interpretation and communicating her science to a range of audiences. She is an experienced field team leader, with an excellent track record in safety, staff management and landholder engagement.





Sarah Thorburn | BBus
Practice Manager
Sarah provides a wealth of business leadership experience, with more than 10 years’ working in various accounting, management and audit roles across a range of industries. She consistently delivers as an effective team member, has excellent attention to detail coupled with effective communication, which has led to positive business outcomes for ESP.
She is a continuous improvement facilitator, who has collaborated with Scientific, Finance and IT colleagues to automate, standardise and enhance reporting landscapes. She is an effective member of our ESP Management Team, leading business analysis and reporting, and our Quality Management System to enhance management decision-making and the quality of our products.






Dr Matthew Hayes | BSc | MSc | PhD
Senior Ecologist
Matthew has over 10 years' or experience in applied aquatic ecology, including extensive experience understanding the ecology of marine flora both in Australia and overseas. In his time as a researcher and consulting scientist, he has combined his practical skills with a high aptitude for problem solving, and strong environmental knowledge to deliver projects in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Matt has a strong international publication record and is a recognised expert in his field. He has highly developed communication skills, demonstrated through the preparation and publication of numerous scientific journal articles, reports and presentations for a range of stakeholders.





Erin Wyatt | BSc | Grad Dip Ed
Senior Ecologist | Laboratory Manager
Erin has over 12 years’ experience in aquatic ecological consulting, research and education. She has led a variety of aquatic ecosystem monitoring programs and environmental impact assessments in freshwater and marine habitats, including for large ongoing REMPs and monitoring projects. Erin brings a high aptitude and skill level to provide quality outcomes for a range of clients. Erin manages our Laboratory and is responsible for team resourcing, sample management and quality control and assurance.




Dr Simon Walker | BSc (Hons) | PhD  
Director | Principal Ecologist
Simon has worked as a professional ecologist for over 20 years.  He holds a PhD in Marine Ecology and has worked variously for private enterprise, academia and for government.  He has completed numerous ecological consulting projects in Australia and the South Pacific, including ecosystem condition and environmental impact assessments, monitoring, and restoration projects for a wide range of industries and geographical locations. He ensures ESP uses the latest scientific knowledge, to provide our clients with sound scientific advice and assessment techniques that meet or exceed current best practice. Simon is a Founding Member and Director of ESP.


ESP Associates and Industry Partners
We bring together a team of associates from other environmental consultancies, industry partners and academia to provide you with the right team for your Project.  With ESP, you can be assured that you will be working with experienced professionals who deliver sound science and value for money. 

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