Helen Margaret Baxter (nee Collins) was born on 22 April 1975 in the coastal town of Fremantle, Western Australia. Her parents, John Collins, a marine biologist, and Elizabeth Collins (née Whitfield), a dedicated primary school teacher, nurtured Helen’s natural curiosity and love for the environment from a young age. Growing up with her younger brother, Thomas, in a home filled with scientific books and the frequent hum of John’s marine research equipment, Helen developed a deep appreciation for the natural world.

From a young age, Helen displayed an insatiable curiosity and a remarkable aptitude for learning. She was particularly fascinated by the diverse ecosystems around her, often spending hours exploring the rock pools and coastal trails near her home. Her parents encouraged her interests, with John frequently taking her on field trips to study marine life and Elizabeth fostering her love of reading and knowledge.

Helen attended Fremantle Primary School, where she excelled academically, particularly in the sciences. Her teachers noted her keen observational skills and her ability to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications. In her free time, Helen was an avid reader, her favourites being books on wildlife and environmental conservation. She was also actively involved in the local scout group, where she developed leadership skills and a sense of community responsibility.

After completing her primary education, Helen went on to Fremantle Secondary College. Here, her passion for biology and environmental science flourished. She participated in numerous science fairs and won several awards for her research projects on local marine life. Her dedication and academic prowess earned her a scholarship to the University of Western Australia, where she pursued a degree in Environmental Science.

Helen’s university years were marked by rigorous academic work and extensive field research. She specialised in wildlife conservation, focusing on the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Her thesis on the impact of human activity on coral reefs was widely acclaimed and published in several scientific journals. After graduating with honours in 1997, Helen continued her studies, earning a PhD in Marine Biology in 2001.

In 2002, Helen joined the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, located in the heart of the D’Aguilar National Park near Brisbane. The centre was dedicated to educating the public about the region’s rich biodiversity and promoting conservation efforts. As a wildlife expert and educator, Helen played a pivotal role in developing interactive exhibits and educational programmes that engaged visitors of all ages.

Helen’s work at the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre was characterised by her innovative approach to education and conservation. She believed in hands-on learning and often led school groups on exploratory tours of the park, sharing her extensive knowledge of the local flora and fauna. Her enthusiasm and dedication inspired many young minds, fostering a new generation of environmental stewards.

In 2005, Helen married David Baxter, a fellow environmental scientist she had met during a research project in the Great Barrier Reef. The couple shared a profound love for the natural world and often collaborated on conservation initiatives. They had two children, Emily, born in 2007, and Oliver, born in 2010. The family’s home in Brisbane became a hub of scientific inquiry and environmental advocacy, reflecting their shared commitment to preserving the planet.

Throughout her career, Helen received numerous accolades for her contributions to wildlife conservation and education. She was a sought-after speaker at international conferences and published extensively on marine biology and conservation strategies. Despite her professional success, Helen remained deeply connected to her local community, volunteering with various environmental groups and mentoring young scientists.

Helen’s life was tragically cut short in 2018 when she succumbed to a sudden illness. Her passing was a significant loss to the scientific community and all who knew her. Helen was remembered not only for her groundbreaking work in environmental conservation but also for her unwavering dedication to education and her ability to inspire and nurture a love for the natural world in others.