Visit Isle of Man announces winners of the ‘Big Blue Bag’ competition

Visit Isle of Man is delighted to announce the nine inspiring winners of the ‘Big Blue Bag’ competition, celebrating individuals and organisations across the Isle of Man who are making a difference in protecting the Island’s marine environment.

The ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative, which launched earlier this year in partnership with TV broadcaster and marine biologist Monty Halls, invited nominations for local ‘ocean heroes’ – people, groups or organisations in the Isle of Man who are actively working to safeguard the Island’s coastline and seas.

The competition prize, a ‘Big Blue Bag’, is a hands-on citizen science toolkit designed to help people of all ages collect and submit valuable data on marine health, from microplastic pollution and sea surface temperatures to coastal debris and biodiversity monitoring.

The nine competition winners range from passionate young conservationists to community leaders and local environmental champions who demonstrate exceptional care for the Island’s coastal ecosystems and embody the spirit of the ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative:

• Mary Jane Douglas - teacher and Environment Group Lead at St John’s School, is described as ‘Inspirational, Motivated, Passionate’.  She inspires her students to prioritise environmental care, from litter picking to biodiversity projects, and is motivating a new generation to care for the seas.
• Darcie Duggan - affectionately known as ‘Darcie Dolittle’, she received two nominations and is an active member of the Manx Wildlife Trust, participating in education sessions and events to deepen her understanding of ocean wildlife. She aspires to be a wildlife photographer and was described as ‘Passionate, Caring, Adventurous’.
• Archie Hudgeon - often takes his litter picker with him to clean his local park and beaches. He’s very respectful of wildlife, loves learning about marine species, and uses his school’s Daffodil Pot Decorating Competition to raise awareness about protecting the environment.
• Ava Lockwood - who dreams of becoming a marine biologist, received two nominations for her dedication to keeping beaches clean and safe for wildlife. Recently, she began snorkelling lessons to help her learn more about marine ecosystems. She’s described as ‘Kind, Caring, Inquisitive’.
• Brooke Baptist - is deeply passionate about sustaining and improving marine ecosystems around the Isle of Man. She hopes to become a marine archaeologist and is always looking for ways to make a difference, whether beachcombing, kayaking, or recording wildlife.
• Willow Jones - alongside her mother Wendy, shares a love for the sea and a vision of becoming a marine biologist. Together, they care for the Island’s beaches, helping to conserve them for future generations. Both are committed to encouraging others to take pride in keeping coastlines clean and thriving, with a focus on reducing pollution and protecting marine life.
• Mike Clark - a lifelong seafarer, has previously used his traditional Manx sailing boat, ‘White Heather’, to protest against environmentally harmful shipping practices. He continues to lead a low-impact lifestyle, repairing, reusing, and reducing waste wherever possible. Now a grandfather, Mike is keen to pass on his passion for the sea to the next generation.
• Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch (MWDW) - raise awareness of marine species across the Isle of Man, from whales and dolphins to seals and porpoises. They collect sightings, conduct research, deliver education sessions in schools and clubs, and participate in community events such as Tynwald Day.
• Eyesea - a global movement founded by local resident Catherine Robertshaw, uses technology to track, record and map marine litter worldwide. Described as ‘Caring, Dedicated, Inspiring,’ Cath and her organisation demonstrate how data and innovation can drive global marine protection.

Monty Halls, founder of the ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative, commented:

‘The Isle of Man continues to lead the way in citizen science and marine stewardship. The stories of these winners show what can be achieved when communities, children, and organisations work together for the health of our seas. Each of them represents hope, a reminder that small actions can drive global change.

‘The Island holds a special place in my heart, and it’s particularly meaningful that the Isle of Man is the first destination in the world to launch the ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative. It’s now the first island on the planet where residents and visitors alike will collectively monitor their own marine environment - a model I hope will inspire coastal communities everywhere.’

Sarah Maltby MHK, Political Member for Visit Isle of Man, Motorsport and Manx National Heritage, added:

‘These winners reflect the very best of our Island’s community spirit. From schools to grassroots groups, their dedication to protecting our marine environment is truly inspiring. The ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative shows how local action can have a global impact, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements.’

The ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative continues to empower Islanders and visitors alike to contribute to real-world environmental research. Data collected through the initiative is shared globally to inform marine conservation strategies, ensuring that the Isle of Man plays a meaningful role in preserving marine health for future generations.

To learn more about the ‘Big Blue Bag’ initiative, visit: https://www.bigbluebag.org/