Great Barrier Reef Festival Highlights Commitment to Sustainability and Conservation

The Great Barrier Reef Festival is thrilled to announce a series of events dedicated to sustainability and environmental education. The Festival's commitment extends to supporting the Traditional Owners, local High Standard Tourism Operators, and the vital work of Master Reef Guides, delivering a collaborative approach to the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

The festival’s sustainability focus is headlined by several key events designed for all ages:

Nature Celebration Whitsundays

Discover and connect with local environmental organisations all working to protect the Whitsundays. This event is a fantastic opportunity for the public to network with passionate conservation groups, learn about local environmental issues, and find out how to get involved. Join the celebration at 5:30 pm on Friday, August 1st, at the Friday Night Markets on the Airlie Beach foreshore.

Coral Sea Marina Resort Seagrass Nursery “Talk & Tour”

Join marine experts from CQ University and Reef Catchments for a morning of discovery and action. This free community event is a rare opportunity to get hands-on with marina restoration and speak directly with leading scientists. Attendees can learn to make their own 'seagrass balls' and even replant them during complimentary boat tours offered by Whisper Cruises, where you might even spot a local turtle!
Book your spot by emailing marketing@csmr.com.au

Immerse Art Installations

Witness the spectacular “Immerse” art installations, a series of reef-inspired sculptures made by local artists using recycled plastic and marine debris. These unique creations transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into an underwater marine wonderland, creating a visual statement about the importance of protecting our oceans. Featured is the 8m long humpback whale and calf alongside coral reefs, and QR code reference points to learn more about the Indigenous names and stories of the reef.

The Ark Energy Family Fun Day

This highly anticipated event is dedicated to interactive reef education and cultural learning. The day will feature:
● Eco Barge Sculpture Tent: An opportunity to learn from the Whitsundays' own turtle rehabilitation and beach cleanup teams.
● Daydream Island’s Living Reef Team: Experts will share valuable insights on coral restoration and reef care.
● Reef Education: Local tour operators will host fun, educational activities for kids and adults, alike, to help attendees learn more about the reef.
● Cultural Workshops: Ngaro & Giya Traditional Owners will share their deep connection to the land and sea through storytelling, weaving, ochre painting, and boomerang and spear throwing.

The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition 2025

This official art exhibition, themed "Tides of Connection," will explore the deep bond between people, nature, and culture. The exhibition showcases the profound ways the Great Barrier Reef links marine ecosystems and the human relationship with the ocean, providing a visual celebration of the reef's significance and its past, present, and future.

For more information and a full list of events, please visit the festival website.

‍