Almost 70% of Australia’s dinosaur species were found by members of the public. Not by scientists, but by farmers, miners, and bush walkers. Growing up on a farm in rural NSW, I’ve been fascinated by the prospect of finding fossils and artefacts on Country, and what stories they tell us about the past.

I established the Found a Fossil Project in 2022, exploring discoveries and interactions between modern Australians and fossils and providing advice on what to do if you discover something (like a dinosaur in your backyard!) and how to protect it.

My background in palaeontology and archaeology has let me explore the relationship ancient people have had with fossils, and if this has changed over time. This work has allowed me to travel across the world, from digging up dinosaurs in the deserts of Mongolia, the Badlands of Canada, and the mines of Lightning Ridge.

I love sharing these science stories with new audiences. From 10 years in museum education, to comedy gigs, TV appearances on Sky News and The Morning Show, and interviews for New Idea and Frankie magazines, I am the visible STEM role model I never had growing up.

Sally Hurst is a Superstar of STEM.