Australia leads international training on the Great Barrier Reef
Australia is the world leader in coral reef research and management. Healthy global
reefs are essential for healthy, happy people. By sharing knowledge on coral reefs
we can build partnerships and make a difference locally and globally for the
environment, society and the economy of our communities.
Twelve coral reef managers from the Pacific, Caribbean and Indian oceans have
successfully completed an amazing three week training course in North Queensland
to exchange knowledge and learn about innovative coral reef science, management
and leadership. The fellows travelled between Townsville, Cairns and Port Douglas,
visiting government departments, research stations, farms, schools and other reefassociated operations. They meet the great people and visited the habitats that make
the Great Barrier Reef so special.
The Australia Awards Fellowship funded the innovative training course Improving
coral reef management for sustainable development. Australia Awards are
prestigious international Scholarships and Fellowships funded by the Australian
Government to build capacity and strengthen partnerships. The program supports
short-term study, research and professional development opportunities in Australia
for mid-career professionals and emerging leaders. Reef Ecologic, an environmental
consulting agency focused on coral reef management, hosted the unique
international fellowship program in North Queensland.
For many of the Fellows, this was their first time snorkeling on the iconic Great
Barrier Reef. They observed the diversity and beauty of the coral, fish and interacted
with turtles, sharks and giant clams. They also observed some of the threats
including Crown of Thorns starfish. They learnt first hand about the issues and
solutions used by key industries such as tourism and fishing to protect the reef.
The Fellowship also includes home-stays with local marine scientists as part of a
cultural exchange. This is a rare and valuable experience as it brings together coral
reef managers from such a variety of locations to gain and share expertise.
An intensive leadership course at Orpheus Island Research Station was a thought
provoking and life changing experience for many of the fellows. The leadership
activities included theory and exercises to plan, problem solve and work together and
to reflect on the process and continuous improvement as well as having fun.
The fellows had many unique experiences with professors, CEO’s, scientists, media
and business people; including Steve Edmonson a leader and innovator in the Great
Reef tourism industry. We met Steve at his tree farm “Eco Shamba” and heard about
the importance of habitat, carbon storage and biofuel. In the afternoon we boarded
Sailaway for a trip to Low Isles offshore from Port Douglas. We were given a guided
tour by Steve and the Low Isles caretaker of the island and learnt about the
management of renewable energy, weather station, coral reefs, heritage and were
impressed by the beauty of the island and the passion and expertise of the people
who care for it.
Reef Ecologic is founded and directed by former GBRMPA employees Dr Adam
Smith and Dr Paul Marshall. “We have observed the global decline of coral reefs and
see that training of future leaders is essential for turning the tide towards a more
sustainable future. Australia is the world leader in coral reef conservation and marine
resource management. This Fellowship is a chance to share Australia’s expertise
with the world” said Dr Adam Smith.
Pictures available on request of people, reefs and training
More information
www.reefecologic.com.au (for detailed brochure)
www.facebook.com.au\reefecologic
Media Release
Media inquiries to:
Dr Adam Smith 0418726584 reefecologic@gmail.com