By GlobalSpa
08-Jun-2024
Surrounded by the Pacific, Southern (Antarctic), and Indian Ocean, Australia is home to an extraordinary array of water bodies and marine life. These oceans are hotspots for some of the richest natural resources, and therefore, demand collective and consistent efforts aimed at creating safe passages for marine wildlife and supporting coastal communities.
Picture caption- Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth
Leading the charge in protecting ocean habitats in Australia, the government, businesses, local charities, and residents drive multilateral forums and initiatives that advocate for sustainable ocean management. The tourism industry also contributes to these efforts through a variety of initiatives and collaborations that facilitate low environmental impact visitation by both local and international visitors.
The commitment to safeguarding our marine culture is unwavering, reflecting the deep connection and respect they have in Australia’s magnificent ocean heritage. Here are some initiatives worth highlighting:
1.) The Australian and Queensland governments in partnership with industry and stakeholders, have implemented a range of Reef 2050 Plan actions that have supported the Reef industry. Master Reef Guides – guides and interpreters – impart up-to-date scientific and management information about the reef and explain what visitors can do to make a difference.
2.) The Australian Government has established 60 Australian Marine Parks, that help conserve marine habitats and the marine species that live within and rely on these habitats.
Picture caption- Agincourt Reef, Port Douglas
3.) Tourism operators also play a key role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef. Their high frequency visitation to the Reef positions them to provide regular pulse checks of the health of the Reef and witness changes when they happen. Dedicated tourism providers to environmental conservation, they integrate education about preservation of the reef into the travel experience, such as Cairns-based Passions of Paradise sailing tours and Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel in Cairns. Lizard Island Research Station, on Whitsunday Islands, is a research facility committed to protecting the health of the reef. Guests of Lizard Island Resort can visit the station, learn from the resident researchers about new technologies and reef conservation.
4.) The ‘Pacific Ocean Litter Project’ is an Australian Government funded project working to reduce marine plastic litter in the coastal environments of Pacific island countries.
5.) ‘Eye on the Reef’ is a monitoring and assessment program that enables anyone who visits the Great Barrier Reef to contribute to its long-term protection by collecting valuable information about reef health, marine animals and incidents.
Picture caption- The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) and Artistic Swimming Australia (ASA) (1)
6.) Passions of Paradise offers an Eco Tour, where guests can ‘be a marine biologist for a day,’ helping with citizen science, reef surveys and the planting or maintenance of coral nurseries, this is offered to scuba divers and snorkellers.
7.) UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island has a daily cap on the visitors to preserve its pristine environment and beaches.
8.) Port Douglas Daintree region is the world’s first locale to receive ECO Destination Certification, given it has the largest reef, the authorities take the utmost care.
9.) Every visitor to the Great Barrier Reef supports its conservation through an Environmental Management Charge included in reef tour fees. This charge funds various reef recovery projects, ensuring that each traveller’s visit directly contributes to preserving this natural wonder.
10.) To recognise this World Oceans Day, Australian Marine Conservation Society is celebrating the life-giving oceans by holding a Giving Day, wherein they double the donation each person makes to protect the oceans and the marine life.
Picture caption- The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) and Artistic Swimming Australia (ASA)
11.) The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) and Artistic Swimming Australia (ASA) are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the "Dive into Greatness", a remarkable fusion of athleticism, artistry, and conservation aimed at raising awareness for the Great Barrier Reef and corals around the world in the lead up to World Oceans Day (June 8). The event featured a breathtaking artistic swimming performance by the Australian Olympic Team, who showcased their Paris Olympics routine in front of MOUA’s stunning underwater art on John Brewer Reef. This unique collaboration serves as a powerful visual reminder of the beauty and importance of the Great Barrier Reef – the world's largest coral reef system and Australia’s national treasure.
