Edward Hay is a PhD candidate in Marine Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. His research focuses on mapping, quantifying, and economically valuing shellfish reef ecosystems within the Moreton Bay Marine Park. Working alongside OzFish Unlimited and industry partners, Edward applies advanced geospatial and ecological techniques including drone-based Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry, bathymetry, and blue carbon economics. Using these techniques, we aim to improve the understanding of coastal habitat distribution, function, and restoration value. His work contributes directly to national efforts under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) by advancing restoration science for degraded marine ecosystems.