Word on the Reef

Did you know Aussies are among the worst plastic polluters on the planet - second only to Singapore for our use of single-use plastic packaging? Every year, 145,000 tonnes of plastic waste leak into our environment, and most of it comes from our supermarkets.Many of these plastics are not recyclable, and even when binned “correctly," they escape - blown by wind, swept by rain - ending up in rivers, oceans, and inside marine life. From turtles mistaking bags for jellyfish to seabirds literally crunching from the plastic in their guts, our throwaway culture is devastating wildlife… and it's coming back to poison us too.But there are solutions.This week, we're joined by Tara Jones, Plastics & Packaging Program Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, who reveals the shock findings from her supermarket plastics investigation. It's infuriating and eye opening, but it also holds the key to what we can do to stop the plastic tide.

The Great Southern Reef is an 8,000-kilometre stretch of temperate rocky reefs and kelp forests that hugs the southern coastline of Australia from Sydney to Perth. It's home to incredible marine life like leafy sea dragons, giant cuttlefish, octopuses, and playful seals. It's a $11.56 billion cornerstone of local economies and part of our way of life for millions of Aussies. But it's also under serious threat.Join us as we chat with Stefan Andrews, marine biologist, filmmaker, educator, and Co-Founder of the Great Southern Reef Foundation, who walks us through the rich biodiversity of this unsung natural wonder—and the climate challenges it now faces. From marine heatwaves and toxic algal blooms to kelp die-offs and urchin outbreaks, we uncover the alarming changes unfolding beneath the waves.But it's not all doom and gloom - there's hope, and action we can take. This episode will open your eyes to a whole new world.Learn Morewww.greatsouthernreef.comwww.instagram.com/greatsouthernreefSupport the show Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

Climate Change is the biggest threat to coral reefs worldwide, causing unprecedented coral bleaching events. But here's the good news: individuals can take powerful, practical climate action to help save the Great Barrier Reef — and some of the soltuions might surprise you!Joining us this week is marine scientist and climate campaigner Dr Yolanda Waters, founder and CEO of Divers for Climate, to share real, tangible ways to take action — no matter who you are or where you live.In this episode:What's really holding people back from urgent climate action?Does community action actually work?Making it personal: how to align your climate action with your passions and skillsPolitical lobbying 101 (it's easier than you think!)The A-B-C of climate action: six categories to rememberWhy joining an action group aligned to your interests makes a huge differenceHow being a First Nations ally fits into climate justiceWhat's more impactful: lifestyle changes, social actions, or civic action?“If I recycle and use a keep cup, is that enough?”The role of citizen science, coral surveys, and coral restorationHow to talk about climate change in ways that motivate and inspireWhy we need more storytellers — not more statisticsHow to turn your love for the reef into a meaningful career in climate and conservationTake Action Now:Sign the Divers For Climate Statement:  www.diversforclimate.comFollow Divers for Climate on Instagram: www.instagram.com/diversforclimate

This week we head to the remote beaches of the Great Barrier Reef—where plastic pollution is piling up faster than we can clean it. But is picking up rubbish really the solution? Or just the beginning?Join us as we play trash detective with marine debris expert Heidi Tait, founder of Tangaroa Blue and the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. From her early days as a dive instructor to shaping global plastic policies, Heidi shares her extraordinary story—and the innovative ways she's turning data into action.Discover where this plastic really comes from, why even the most isolated coastlines aren't safe, and how you can be part of the movement to stop pollution before it hits the beach.Plus, hosts Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban break down what the latest Federal Election means for the future of the Great Barrier Reef.Support the show Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

Brett Wright has spent the past 30 years taking visitors to the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas with his tour company Windswell Adventures—and he's seen the changes up close. From worsening coral bleaching to the devastation of extreme weather events, climate change is no longer a distant threat, but a reality affecting his livelihood and the Reef he loves. Brett shares a heartfelt call for stronger climate leadership, while reminding us that the Reef is still alive, breathtaking, and worth fighting for.Also in this episode: How do we talk to others about climate change in a way that inspires, not alienates? Zef Aster, Outreach Campaigner and long-time volunteer with the Australian Marine Conservation Society, shares practical tips for starting meaningful conversations and creating real community impact.Join diver and conservationist Tanya Murphy and marine educator Brett Goodban as we explore marine science on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!Support the show Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

In this special Election Edition of Word on the Reef, Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban dive into one of the most critical questions facing Australians ahead of the Federal Election: Who has the best plan to save the Great Barrier Reef?To find out, we're joined by Maria Poulos Conklin, Head of Government Relations at the Australian Conservation Foundation, who breaks down ACF's powerful Election Scorecard, comparing how each major party stacks up on climate and environmental policies... and let's just say it's a little confronting!PLUS, all the major political candidates for the Far North Queensland electorate of Leichhardt have been invited to share their Reef protection policies with us. Today we're joined by Dr Phillip Musumeci, Greens candidate for Leichhardt, to talk about tube worms, space lasers and why sheep are big fans of solar energy.

The federal election is just two weeks away — and it turns out some politicians are still floundering when it comes to climate change. While the Reef suffers, some parties are busy serving up red herrings instead of real solutions. This week Tanya and Brett dive into the national emergency that should be making front-page news: the GBR's sixth mass coral bleaching in nine years. That's right — the Reef's in hot water, and some leaders are still dodging the science like slippery eels.We're joined by special guest Simon Miller from the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack the science, the politics, and the solutions. If you care about the Reef, this is the election to vote like it.Also in this episode:

This week, our guest is West Australian coral ecologist Associate Professor Zoe Richards, who's had some extraordinary adventures—diving with crocodiles, discovering new coral species and surveying nuclear bomb sites!We'll journey to Micronesia to uncover an ancient civilisation that built mysterious structures from coral, and to Ningaloo, the world's largest fringing reef, now sadly in the grips of a mass bleaching event.From emus on the beach to seals frolicking with corals, this is both a love letter to WA's reefs and a powerful wake-up call for their protection.

This week we're heading back to spectacular Lizard Island to uncover what's changed since last year's record-breaking coral bleaching event. New research station co-director Dr David Abrego takes us a vivid tour of this world-renowned reef science hub and shares the sobering reality of back-to-back bleaching events that are pushing corals to the brink. From flying over glittering turquoise waters to diving deep into marine heatwaves, coral adaptation, and reef restoration, this episode is a rollercoaster of awe, hope, and heartbreak. Discover why Lizard Island has been visited by the likes of David Attenborough and former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, how it inspired world heritage protection, and why what happens there could determine the fate of reefs everywhere.Highlights include:The stunning geography and biodiversity of Lizard IslandThe science behind coral bleaching and why it's now annualHopeful insights into coral resilience and adaptation researchWhat each of us can do—right now—to help protect the reefHow solar-powered science and climate action are lighting the path forwardThis is more than just a reef update—it's a call to action. Because if we protect the reef, we protect ourselves.Support the showJOIN THE CONVERSATION Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

This week, we dive deep into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef's current coral bleaching crisis with marine social scientist and CEO of Divers for Climate, Dr. Yolanda Waters.

This week, conservationist, photographer and filmmaker Christian Miller takes us on an unforgettable journey — from swimming alongside the planet's largest animal, to eavesdropping on a humpback whale krill hunt. Along the way, we'll dodge jaguars and flesh-eating ants in the Amazon, and learn why you can't hide anything from a whale (spoiler: they can literally see through you). Strap in — it's a wild ride. It's our third week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.JOIN THE CONVERSATION Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

This week, marine biologist and underwater photographer Lawrence Scheele takes us beneath the surface at Magnetic Island for a wild and wonderful tour of its marine life.Discover how jellyfish can detect and dodge humans (despite having no brains), why attempting sign language with a cuttlefish is a big mistake, and how to spot the telltale signs that an octopus might be living in your neighbourhood (spoiler: they are messy!)It's our second week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.JOIN THE CONVERSATION Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

Word on the Reef is hitting the airwaves!We're now LIVE on CairnsFM 89.1 every Friday at 10 AM (QLD time)! Tune in on your radio or stream online at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.This week, I'm joined by fellow aquanaut Brett Goodban as we uncover the secrets of getting along with your local marine life—including how to avoid getting the side-eye from a grouper (yes, they judge you) and how to turn setbacks into opportunities when life throws you a curveball.

Today we're continuing our countdown of the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them, with Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller. You won't believe some of the encounters he's had with today's animals!Follow Tahn on InstagramYOU CAN HELP Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

The Great Barrier Reef has just experienced its worst summer on record, with cyclones, severe rainfall, flooding, and its most extreme coral bleaching event ever. The World Heritage Committee has expressed concerns that the Australian Government isn't doing enough to protect the Reef, particularly regarding its climate policies, and advised the Reef may face a possible 'In Danger' listing. To explain what that means and what we need to do about it, our guest this week is Reef and World Heritage Expert Dr Jon Day.YOU CAN HELP Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

Tahn Miller is a Master Reef Guide who has spent 14 years observing and teaching people about magical creatures on the Great Barrier Reef. Join us as we swap crazy stories about close encounters with these incredible animals, while counting down the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them! (JK Rowling reference, for the Muggles out there).Follow @TahnMiller on InstagramFollow Tahn on YouTubeYOU CAN HELP Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef. Support Word on the Reef on Patreon Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org

Winter is an incredible time to see, hear, and even swim with whales on the Great Barrier Reef! But they also get up to some pretty weird things, and today we'll learn all about the secrets of whales from someone who has dedicated his life to studying them.Sign the petition to stop whale entanglements in shark nets Learn more about "Humpbacks and High Rises"Follow "Word on the Reef" on InstagramHelp whales with the Australian Marine Conservation Society's whale protection campaign.

It's official - we are in the midst of the world's worst coral bleaching event on record, affecting two thirds of corals globally, spanning some 64 countries and territories. We've already explored some of the impacts on the Great Barrier Reef - this week we'll head overseas to find out about the impacts in other countries.To see the map discussed in this episode: https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-confirms-4th-global-coral-bleaching-event

In 1967, it was discovered that the Queensland government had secretly leased out more than 200,000sqkm of the Great Barrier Reef for oil drilling. A small group of unlikely heroes banded together to save the Reef. Their courageous story of hope against seemingly insurmountable odds holds a lesson for us all.

The Great Barrier Reef wasn't always considered a natural wonder worth protecting.

This week we visit a coral nursery near Port Douglas, to see how tourism operators are teaming up with scientists to care for their patches of reef. The Coral Nurture Program is showing promising results - but what are its limitations, and what role does it play in protecting our Reef?

The Marine Park Authority has confirmed the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its seventh mass coral bleaching event - the fifth in just eight years, driven by global warming

“The Reef is our nervous system. It's made up of land, sea , sky, animals, and people… Once we destroy that nervous system, it's critical damage for our body. Because we are all one."

The Marine Park Authority has confirmed severe coral bleaching is unfolding on the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef

Meet Dr Kate Quigley, a molecular ecologist who has spent years studying corals up close

This week we're off on a snorkelling adventure to meet the curious creatures who built the Great Barrier Reef.

Meet our host and tour guide Tanya for a scenic flight over the world's largest Reef. ✈️  We'll spot some marine life