Meet the Ecologist Turning Passion into Impact
From the fragile Great Barrier Reef to the dense, untamed jungles of Sumatra, Sonny’s journey as an ecologist has taken him to some of the world’s most extraordinary and endangered ecosystems. Blending science with heart, Sonny’s career spans ecological restoration, responsible tourism, and grassroots conservation volunteering. For him, sustainability isn’t just a profession - it’s a calling, rooted in a profound respect for Country, community, and the natural world.
Inspired by Australia’s coastal beauty, Sonny Royal’s passion for the environment began early and evolved into a lifelong mission. His journey into conservation was ignited on Bangkaru Island, where he volunteered with the Aceh Sea Turtle Conservation, protecting endangered green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea). He later joined the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme, living deep in the rainforest to track and study orangutans. His work contributed to the discovery of a new species, the Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis), a defining moment in his career. These powerful experiences cemented Sonny’s purpose: to protect the planet’s most vulnerable species and inspire others to do the same.
…one opportunity led to another, and I’ve been fortunate that volunteering played such a pivotal role in shaping my professional journey. My advice to others is to choose a cause that resonates with you and be open to starting small. You never know where volunteering can lead, and even the smallest action can have a lasting impact.
Drawn to Borneo’s extraordinary biodiversity, Sonny spent four years immersed in field research and ecotourism, deepening his connection to wildlife and conservation. When the pandemic brought him back to Southeast Queensland, the pause offered space to reflect. Motivated by his global experiences and a renewed sense of purpose, he chose to further his impact through postgraduate study.
Sonny enrolled in a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management & Sustainability at the University of Newcastle, which he then transitioned straight into the Master’s degree with a specialisation in natural resource management. Thanks to credits awarded for his extensive real-world experience, he was able to complete his studies online and part-time while working as an Ecologist.
The University’s commitment to sustainability and its supportive learning environment played a huge role in helping me overcome my initial doubts and succeed in my studies. A special shout-out to my convenor, Alex Callen, for inspiring such deep learning of ecological concepts and resilience thinking that now live rent-free in my head.
Now a Senior Ecologist, Sonny is dedicated to creating lasting impact through sustainability and giving back to the environment. He leads ecological projects focused on biodiversity conservation, threatened species protection, and environmental impact assessments across major renewable energy, infrastructure, and water developments; ensuring nature remains a priority throughout and that outcomes benefit both the environment and local communities.
A serene landscape featuring a river in the foreground, with a small boat and lush tropical vegetation along the banks, set against a backdrop of misty mountains at sunrise.
A macaque monkey embracing its young, who is peeking out from behind its parent's arm, set against a natural background with a blurred tree trunk.
An elephant partially obscured by lush green foliage in a natural forest setting.
An orangutan hanging from a tree branch, reaching for fruit among green leaves.
A sun bear resting its head on a tree trunk in a forested environment.
View inside a cave, showing illuminated stalactite formations and a walking path.
A Rhinoceros Hornbill in flight, displaying its large wingspan and distinctive yellow and orange beak against a pale blue sky.
Driven by a desire to combine his passion for travel and conservation with his ecological expertise, Sonny has embarked on creating his own sustainable travel company.
The concept for Unearth Adventure took shape during the time my husband and I spent living in remote Sumatra. It was there that the vision was born - connecting travellers to authentic, nature-based experiences and exclusive wildlife encounters. What started as a passion project has now evolved into a business that merges my ecological expertise with my love for inspiring others to appreciate and protect the natural world.
Designed to foster meaningful connections with nature, Unearth Adventure offers small-group tours to biodiversity hotspots such as Borneo and Sri Lanka, including the very sea turtle conservation program where Sonny once volunteered. Through these immersive, hands-on experiences, guests not only explore vibrant ecosystems but also actively contribute to local conservation efforts. For Sonny, Unearth Adventure is about inspiring lasting change and strengthening our collective commitment to sustainability.
Biodiversity is the backbone of our planet’s ecosystems. Every species, from the smallest microbe to the largest predator, plays a role in maintaining the balance of life on Earth. Without biodiversity, we risk losing the resilience of ecosystems, which in turn threatens human well-being. Protecting biodiversity is therefore not just about saving individual species but about preserving the health and stability of our entire planet.
Sonny’s lifelong, visceral connection to nature has evolved into a powerful career dedicated to conserving the environment and inspiring others to do the same. Through his work, Sonny reminds us that caring for the planet is a shared responsibility and that each of us has a role to play in preserving ecosystems for the generations still to come.
Everyday people play a crucial role in supporting the environment, …the collective impact of small actions can be immense. Whether it’s reducing waste, supporting sustainable businesses, conserving water, or getting involved in local environmental initiatives, each decision counts.
People wearing life jackets traveling down a river in a small motorboat, surrounded by lush forest.
Sonny and his husband smiling in front of a waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and sunlight filtering through the trees.
A group of hikers exploring a dense forest trail, surrounded by lush greenery and large trees.
Sonny sitting on a rock in a dense forest, looking upwards, surrounded by lush greenery and fallen leaves.
Five Ecologists, including Sonny, in uniforms and hats, posing in a wooded area, smiling at the camera.
Inspired by Sonny's story?
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.