Neil Andison, known as the 'Platypus Whisperer', is a Maleny-based former machinery operator and navy veteran who reinvented himself in his 60s as one of Australia’s most dedicated platypus advocates. After a chance sighting in 2012, Neil began daily dawn and dusk walks along Obi Obi Creek, photographing and studying the elusive monotreme — now logging thousands of sightings and leading 'Platypus Whisper' tours with a 90% success rate. Beyond guiding, he educates schools and communities about platypus conservation, campaigns against threats like lethal yabby nets, and has earned recognition such as the Rotary Enviro Award for his tireless work to protect these iconic creatures and their fragile habitats.