Join us! When: 6.00 pm – 9:30 pm Friday 20th March, 2026
Where: Bondi Pavilion
In 1967, Ellison Reef became the unlikely battleground for a proposal to mine coral rubble. A small group of citizen scientists, artists and local advocates proved the reef was alive and worth saving.
Their effort stopped the mining plan, sparked a national outcry and helped lead to the creation of the Australian Marine Conservation Society and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
It remains known as the reef that saved all reefs. Nearly sixty years on, this story is entering a new chapter.
As the Great Barrier Reef faces unprecedented climate pressures, a new generation of coral scientists, community divers, reef advocates and Mandubarra Sea Country rangers has returned to Ellison Reef to build on the work begun in 1967, seeking to understand how this pivotal reef has changed and what it now reveals about the future.
Hosted by the Ocean Lovers Festival and presented by AMCS, the evening begins with the world premiere of this short film.
Combining science, art, culture, archival material and intimate underwater storytelling, it reflects on the legacy of the original Fight for the Reef campaign and brings today’s urgency into clear view, showing how community voices and evidence-based advocacy have shaped national decisions before, and how they can again.
After the screening, a panel of campaigners, scientists, Mandubarra Sea Country rangers and filmmakers will reflect on the resurvey, the cultural and ecological significance of Ellison Reef, and the growing movement calling for bold action to protect all reefs. Their conversation will explore climate resilience, cultural guardianship and the responsibility carried by those who inherit a story this important.
Return to Ellison Reef is a reminder that Australia has a proud history of standing up for the ocean, that committed people can shift the course of events, and that hope is built through action.
And while Ellison Reef is the focus, the solutions it illuminates apply to every reef we stand to lose or protect. This premiere marks a national moment, inviting Australians to reconnect with our conservation origins and recommit to the work ahead.
Experience the premiere of a new film that reconnects Australia with one of the most influential reefs in our conservation history. Tickets are limited.
Image credit: Harriet Spark
The Ocean Lovers Festival is Australia’s largest Cultural and Science Celebration for the Ocean. It is an annual celebration of discovery, action and fun, showcasing some of the latest innovations, science, state-of-the-art technology and cool ideas for helping the ocean.
Be inspired and entertained with art, music, food, talks, stalls, workshops and more. Visit our website for more information.