Dr Ana Rubio

As Catchments Coordinator based in Hornsby, NSW, my professional focus lies in the management of harmful algae blooms (HABs) within estuarine and recreational swimming sites, particularly across the Lower Hawkesbury estuary. This region is ecologically diverse and supports a range of recreational and commercial activities, including oyster farming, which is highly sensitive to water quality fluctuations. My expertise integrates environmental monitoring, public health communication, and estuarine process analysis to mitigate the impacts of HABs. I play a key role managing the Hawkesbury estuary and work closely with researchers and regional stakeholders to identify environmental drivers—such as nutrient loading, temperature shifts, and hydrodynamic changes—that contribute to bloom formation and persistence. These insights inform targeted interventions and predictive modelling to reduce bloom occurrence and severity. A critical component of my role involves timely notification to residents and recreational users about the presence of harmful algae and associated risks. I coordinate public advisories and signage at affected swimming sites, ensuring community awareness and safety. Additionally, I liaise with oyster farmers to assess bloom-related risks to harvesting operations, helping to safeguard public health and industry viability. My work is grounded in a catchment-wide approach that considers upstream land use, stormwater inputs, and estuarine circulation patterns. I collaborate with environmental scientists and waterway managers along NSW coastline to develop guidelines and integrated strategies that protect water quality and ecosystem health.