Dear Friend Congratulations to our newest cohort of Ambassadors who have completed their online training, hopefully you will see them soon out and about at an event. Our next round of surveyor training kicks off on 11 November and applications close 4 November, so be sure to check out our website for more information (links below). Activities in the GBR region kick off again soon, but this month we still have plenty to report on from SEQ. This months email includes: Action of the Month:  Create a Sustainable Christmas News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Create a Sustainable Christmas With the festive season approaching, we’re all starting to think about gifts, gatherings, and holiday cheer. This year, let’s make the holiday season a gift to our planet and community by supporting local businesses and choosing sustainably! Rethink Your Christmas List: Consider the journey and impact behind each item you gift. Local products not only reduce carbon footprints but also support businesses right here in our community. When thinking about gifts, why not look for items made from sustainable, recycled, or compostable materials? Experiences also make memorable gifts that leave little to no waste, so explore local tours, workshops, or memberships that support regional artists and small businesses. Host with Heart: For gatherings, embrace reusables to cut down on holiday waste. Swap out single-use items for a collective effort – ask guests to bring along their own plates, cutlery, or picnic set. This small change reduces waste while sparking some meaningful conversations about the simple ways we can all help our environment. Make it Personal and Local: As a bonus, next month we’ll highlight a few favourite small businesses, right here in our neighbourhood, to inspire your holiday shopping. Whether it's handmade crafts, sustainable decor, or unique experiences, there’s something for everyone right here. These small choices add up to a brighter, cleaner, and more connected holiday season. Let’s make every gift count for the community and the planet! News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland 🌿🌊 Ray of Sunshine, St Helena Reef Health Survey - August 2024 ❄️✨ By Team Leader, Jodi Salmond In early August, we conducted a reef health survey at Ray of Sunshine, located off St Helena Island in Moreton Bay. The weather was perfect for our work, with clear skies and calm waters. The water temperature remained brisk at 15°C, but the excellent visibility allowed us to carry out a thorough examination of the site. During this survey, we observed a small amount of coral bleaching, with an estimated 2-10% of the population affected, and individual colonies showing bleaching levels between 10% and 45%. Interestingly, we noted a significant increase in nutrient indicator algae compared to our summer surveys, but there was a noticeable decrease in silt, making the substrate clearer overall. The hard coral coverage remained steady at just over 5%. Unfortunately, no target fish species were recorded at this site, continuing a pattern we’ve observed in the winter surveys at all the shallow inshore sites except for one. Three drupella shells were the only target invertebrates recorded, although a high number of nudibranchs were recorded; much higher than commonly recorded on these sites. These observations underscore the dynamic changes occurring in our marine environments, and the importance of ongoing monitoring to inform conservation strategies. Our work at these inshore Moreton Bay sites, supported by the Port of Brisbane, is crucial for understanding these ecosystems and guiding efforts to protect them. We extend our thanks to Wet Boat Hire for their support in transporting us to our survey sites and to our dedicated team of volunteers who continue to show incredible commitment to this vital work. We also thank the Port of Brisbane for their ongoing support in making these surveys possible. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Quandamooka Country, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. 🌿🌊 Green Island North, Winter Survey - July 2024 ❄️✨ On our recent winter survey of Green Island North, we were once again blessed with incredible weather—beautiful sunshine and calm seas. The water was slightly warmer compared to our previous site, ranging between 14 and 15°C. The visibility was excellent, showcasing the stunning underwater landscape, despite the chilly conditions. This site presented a higher amount of silt compared to others, and we encountered marine debris, including an old net that we successfully removed. Unfortunately, as with the previous site, we found no target fish species, which is a rare occurrence and a point of interest for our monitoring efforts. However, we did spot a few nudibranchs and a variety of nutrient indicator algae, indicating the ongoing changes in this ecosystem. We observed a small amount of coral bleaching, affecting an estimated 5% of the coral population, with individual colonies showing varying degrees of bleaching from approximately 5% to 60%. It was a stark reminder of the delicate balance within these marine habitats. A notable sighting was a lone wobbegong, adding a touch of excitement to our survey. These observations are crucial for understanding the impacts of sedimentation and other stressors on the reef. Our work, supported by the Port of Brisbane, aims to shed light on these dynamic ecosystems and guide conservation efforts. We extend our gratitude to Wet Boat Hire for their support in getting us to our survey sites and to our dedicated team of volunteers who braved the cold waters to contribute to this important work. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Danggar (Green Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. Mudjimba Island Northwest Wall, Reef Health Survey, September 2024 Our Reef Check Australia team had an amazing day back at one of our absolute favourite sites; Mudjimba Island. Our first dive of the day was at our site on the north west side. It was the first survey we have conducted since the installation of no-anchor marker buoys around the island. This site, monitored by Reef Check Australia since 2013, continues to host a unique array of marine life and shows promising reef health! Visibility was stunning, revealing rocky substrates with turf algae, soft corals, and a scattering of hard corals. We spotted various sea stars, nudibranchs, and spider conch shells. Coral bleaching was low, observed at just 2% on our transects. On our way out, we were greeted by playful whales and could hear their songs while underwater—always an unforgettable experience! A massive thank you to Blue Tortuga Adventures for getting us out to the site and to our incredible volunteers who make these vital reef surveys possible. We acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of this land and sea country, and we pay our respects to elders past, present, and emerging. This survey is supported by the Sunshine Coast Councils Environment Levy Partnership Grant. Checking up on corals; October 2024, written by Charlie Bennett, RCA Reef Ambassador. On the morning of October 14th our passionate team of four met in Cleveland, just outside of Brisbane, around 7:45am to set up for the day! The Team consisted of Tony, our skipper, Jodi, the Reef Check Australia General Manager, me, and José a Reef Check Australia Volunteer like myself. Jodi, José and I donned our wetsuits and set up our SCUBA gear, and headed out to our Peel Island Coral Restoration Site. We were lucky enough to even spot some dolphins on the way over, while carefully going through all the safety protocols and each of our individual roles for the dive. Over the 45 minute dive, our trio carefully executed each of our individual jobs incredibly well. Jodi went around and filmed each of the 4 structures and their corals. José was charged with measuring the amount of silt that had accumulated in the bay underneath the structures. My role was to follow behind and measure the growth of each of the attached corals, and confirm if they were alive, dead, diseased or missing. To finish off, after we had completed all our separate tasks we scrubbed the silt off the structures themselves, to give the corals the best chance at survival. After finishing our dive and returning to the boat, we decided to take the opportunity to check out Peel Island, and do a beach clean up, considering the holidays were over, and the amount of rain the region has recently received, we wanted to see how much debris had washed up, and/or had being left behind. After completely loading the boat up with trash we headed back to the Cleveland boat ramp to unload and head our separate ways. On the way there we were lucky enough to spot 3 Humpback whales heading out of the bay into the ocean. It was an absolutely magical experience to top off an incredible day with the RCA Team! Thankyou to everyone who contributed to the day, and big thanks to Tony from Wet Boat Hire for getting us to where we needed to get to. Sunshine Coast Biosphere 2024 – Exploring Active Conservation Reef Check Australia was pleased to be invited to participate as a panel member for this session of the NExT Forums around Creating Connections: Exploring the Sunshine Coast Biosphere with our Community Conversation Series -focusing on each of the biosphere objectives. Panel guests also included representatives of Hinterland Bush Links and the University of the Sunshine Coast. The audience was able to ask questions of the panel which were answered from the perspective of each panel member and their associated organisation, which included terrestrial activities, marine activities and new technology around using sound recordings for biodiversity monitoring. It was great to see such interest in not only what conservation groups are doing on the coast but also people’s commitment to the outcomes of the biosphere objectives and how they can get involved. Our attendance at this event was made possible by funding support from the Sunshine Coast Council’s Environment Levy Partnership Grant. Reef Check Acknowledges the Kabi Kabi peoples of the Sunshine Coast, the traditional custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. Photos kindly supplied by Roslyn Potter – Sunshine Coast Council.   Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Deep Water The world in the Ocean by James Bradley 'Teeming with mysteries, wonders and heartbreaking facts, this beautiful, lucid hymn to the sea is a reminder of what we still have, what we stand to lose, and why we must never stop fighting to save our home.' Tim Winton Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Great Southern Reef Port Jackson Sharks Girls slumber party? Watch and Read now in: Great Southern Reef Foundation Mightier than the Saw! You might remember our Coast to Corals talk on Sawfish. Check out the latest information. Read now in: Australian Geographic Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Mon 11 Nov | Online surveyor training begins - see website for more details. Plus there will be lots more coming up soon so remember to follow us on socials. Whilst things have taken a back seat on the Coast to Corals talks, remember you can always watch past episodes by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia   Tile photo by Photo by Benjamin L. Jones on Unsplash

Dear Friend Well the Bioblitz on the Sunshine Coast hosted by Sunshine Coast Council went really well with lots of participants on, in and around the water taking part. Stay tuned for our report on that one. We would like to welcome our new volunteers participating in our current ambassador course; without people like these amazing humans we can't do what we do. Don't forget we have surveyor training scheduled for November and there are still available places, so be sure to check out our website for more information (links below).  This months email includes: Action of the Month:  Take a look at something different! News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Take a look at something different! We all know our oceans are fragile and coral reproduction is slow but coral spawning is a fascinating and vital event for marine ecosystems, particularly on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. This phenomenon typically occurs around November and December, coinciding with the full moon, when conditions like water temperature and lunar cycles align perfectly. During coral spawning, many species of coral release eggs and sperm into the water simultaneously, creating a spectacular underwater display. This event is crucial for reproduction and the genetic diversity of coral populations. The fertilized eggs develop into larvae, which eventually settle and form new coral colonies. The timing of the spawning can vary slightly each year based on environmental factors, but it's a remarkable sight for divers and marine enthusiasts. It's also a critical moment for conservation efforts, as coral reefs face significant threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Understanding and protecting these spawning events is vital for maintaining the health of these ecosystems. Our teams will be helping out again this year with deployment of coral spawn to degraded sections of reef. If you're planning to witness this event, be sure to check local resources for the best times and locations. It’s an incredible opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of marine life! and then tell everyone about it!. News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland Plastic Free July Written by Jessi Medley, a survey Diver in training Today a collaboration of like minded people shared their passion, earth saving tips and education with the general public for Plastic Free July. This event is held once a year, every year, and hosted by Visionary Ocean Warriors with the support of Sunshine Coast Council and a variety of local community groups and businesses. This year I was lucky enough to be a part of the Reef Check Australia Team and had the opportunity to raise reef awareness with the event attendees. The collaboration with other like minded groups who are raising awareness of their own unique causes creates a buzz of atmosphere as they all directly march towards the same goal; reduce rubbish, keep our land and oceans clean and protect those organisms, animals and coral that depend on a healthy environment. Today the community came together and swapped stories and educated those who were curious or wanted to know more. Nearly all the organisations run on volunteers or individuals to keep the awareness alive. It doesn’t matter how little or how much knowledge you have about the ocean or our environment, raising awareness of it’s importance is a key part for its survival. Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Councils Environment Levy Partnerships Grant. Next Generation Project Management Community of Practice: Pushing Boundaries and New Frontiers - Jodi Salmond This week, I had the incredible opportunity to speak at the "Next Generation" event, addressing a room full of high-performing individuals from across the Sunshine Coast. Upon entering, I noticed the lack of women in the room. While this can be common in certain fields, it can also be the opposite. My talk focused on women in leadership and my journey with both Reef Check Australia and Homeward Bound. Speaking to a room full of project managers about not-for-profits and women in leadership was bound to be a bit different and potentially challenge the status quo, which is exactly the conversation I was hoping to start. It's not every day that you get the chance, as a woman, to address the realities of gender inequality in the workplace—or simply highlight that women were a minority in the room. I cherished this opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals I wouldn't normally meet. During my talk, I shared insights from my experiences with Homeward Bound and Reef Check Australia, along with the leadership lessons I've learned throughout my marine-focused and travel-based career. It was inspiring to hear from other talented speakers about projects far removed from my own, such as large construction projects, the aquarium industry, and the future of smart homes. The highlights of the day were twofold: first, seeing friendly faces in the audience that were a delightful surprise, and second, having both women and men approach me after the talk. They expressed how inspired they were and shared their hopes for a more inclusive future. It was particularly heartening to hear from women in male-dominated industries eager to see a more inclusive outlook and leadership that values vulnerability as a strength. I truly enjoyed engaging with a group I don't often interact with and making new connections. I'm excited about sharing our local marine environment with people who may not have known how amazing it is on our doorstep. The potential for collaboration, where both men and women work together for a sustainable and environmentally friendly future, is inspiring. Let's continue to push boundaries and create a world where construction and the environment can coexist harmoniously. Moreton Bay Research Station Open Day By volunteer ambassador, Steph King "In August, Adrienne, Patrick, and I attended the Moreton Bay Research Station open day. We began with an Aboriginal heritage talk that deepened our understanding of the island's cultural significance. We also spoke to visitors about Reef Check's vital work in monitoring coral reefs and engaging the community in conservation. The day included talks on manta rays and koala preservation, as well as hands-on activities like observing marine creatures under a microscope. Connecting with like-minded individuals and promoting Reef Check’s mission was a fantastic way to raise awareness and encourage others to protect our marine ecosystems. This open day offered a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and get involved in meaningful conservation efforts”. Our enormous thanks to these amazing volunteers without whom we could not achieve our goals. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. Our attendance at this event is supported by the Port of Brisbane. Moreton Bay, Mud Island - Winter Reef Health Surveys Written by Team Leader. Jodi Salmond 🌿🌊 Mud Island, Coral Galore Reef Health Survey - August 2024 ❄️✨ Our recent survey took us to Coral Galore at Mud Island, one of my personal favourite sites. Nestled in shallow waters of just 3 to 4 metres, this site stands out for its remarkable coral coverage, boasting what might be the highest density of coral among our Port of Brisbane monitoring locations. Despite the impressive coral presence, we observed some notable changes from summer to winter. The amount of silt decreased significantly, which is a positive development for the reef's health. However, there was an increase in nutrient indicator algae, and we recorded a small amount of coral bleaching. Specifically, individual coral colonies showed bleaching ranging from 20% to 73%, though only 2% of the overall coral population was affected. Unfortunately, like our other winter survey sites, no target fish species were recorded. We did, however, find eight Drupella snails and a variety of nudibranchs, adding a splash of colour to our survey. These observations highlight both the resilience and the challenges faced by Coral Galore. Our ongoing monitoring, supported by the Port of Brisbane, is essential in understanding these dynamic changes and guiding our conservation efforts. A big thank you to Wet Boat Hire for their support in getting us to our survey sites and to our dedicated team of volunteers who continue to contribute their time and expertise. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Bangamba (Mud Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. By Team Leader, Jodi Salmond🌿🌊 Mud Island, Rubble Patch - Winter Survey 2024 ❄️✨ In early August, our Reef Check Australia team visited Rubble Patch off Mud Island for our winter survey. We were greeted with clear skies and calm conditions, though the chilly water reminded us that winter was still in full swing. The site lived up to its name with plenty of rubble on the seafloor. We noted an increase in nutrient indicator algae compared to summer, while the amount of silt had significantly decreased, providing a clearer view of the underwater environment. Among our findings, we recorded a small amount of soft coral and observed a discarded crab pot complete with entangled netting, highlighting the ongoing issue of marine debris in our waters. Despite these improvements, we continued to find no target fish species, which is a trend we’re keeping an eye on. A few Drupella snails were the only target invertebrate recorded. This highlights the importance of our ongoing surveys to detect and understand these changes over time. Our work is supported by the Port of Brisbane as part of their environmental monitoring program. We extend our thanks to Wet Boat Hire for their assistance in getting us to the site, and to our dedicated volunteers who braved the cooler waters to contribute to our research. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Bangamba (Mud Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. Mudjimba Island - The Wall - Reef Health Survey Our Reef Check Australia team returned to the middle site on the southern side of Mudjimba Island, known as "The Wall S3," for our annual reef health monitoring of the site. This site, sitting at 6m on the reef slope, has been monitored for over a decade. Dominated by encrusting hard corals, soft corals, anemones, and various invertebrates, the reef remains a dynamic environment. This is our first reef health survey at this site since the installation of the no anchor markers. During our survey, we noted several examples of coral bleaching, including both hard and soft corals. We also found a bleached anemone; unusual for this site. We recorded a few pieces of fishing line and general trash, drupella snails (a coral eating snail) and 2 examples of recently broken coral. We were lucky enough to record a wobbegong, a curious octopus, and numerous nudibranchs and sea stars. For the first time since diving this site we did not come across any turtles. A special thanks to Blue Tortuga Adventures for their continued support and to all our incredible volunteers—your contributions make this essential work possible! We acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present, and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Council’s Environmental Levy Partnerships Grant. Donation from Huskee Huskee is pleased to announce it raised $1,500 for the Reef Check Australia Foundation as part of its Plastic Free July campaign. The Huskee team chose to raise funds for the Reef Check Australia Foundation as they align with our mission to reduce single-use plastic waste and protect our oceans. We would like to thank Huskee for their kind donation. Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Sing Like Fish by Amorina Kingdon If you think the ocean is silent you are in for a surprise. In this book Amorina looks at historical and current research to enlighten the reader on sounds of the ocean. Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Three types of Great White Shark? Apparently there are three distinct types of great white shark. Read now in: Dive Magazine Manta Rays! Find out what Project Manta has been up to. Read now in: Australian Geographic Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Mon 11 Nov | Online surveyor training begins - see website for more details. Plus there will be lots more coming up soon so remember to follow us on socials. Whilst things have taken a back seat on the Coast to Corals talks, remember you can always watch past episodes by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia

Dear Friend After the icy blasts we now have an early "summer". It has certainly been a strange year so far for weather. While things have slowed a bit in the GBR (before we gear up again in a couple of months) our SEQ teams have still been busy and we bring you some more of our winter activities. Don't forget we have ambassador and surveyor training scheduled for later in the year, so be sure to check out our website for more information (links below). Also this news is coming to you early so we could include a link for the Sunshine Coast Marine Bioblitz which is on this week, August 30 and 31. Check out Sunshine Coast Marine Bioblitz for details and how to register! We hope to see you there. This months email includes: Action of the Month: Spring Dive" Refresh Your Habits, Revive Your Ocean News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Spring Dive: Refresh Your Habits, Revive Our Ocean As the Australian spring bursts onto the scene, let's not just clean our homes – let's spring clean our impact on the ocean! This September, Reef Check Australia invites you to join the "Unclutter, Refresh, Reimagine" campaign, transforming your habits and contributing to a brighter future for our precious seas. Here's how you can Spring Clean Your Ocean Footprint: Unclutter your consumption: Unpack your pantry: Conduct a personal plastic audit and identify single-use plastics you can replace with reusable alternatives. Declutter your closet: Donate clothes you don't wear and choose sustainable fashion options that minimise environmental impact. Reduce your digital footprint: Unsubscribe from unwanted emails, shorten your online searches, and explore eco-friendly tech solutions.       2. Refresh your routines: Embrace green cleaning: Switch to natural cleaning products and adopt eco-friendly cleaning practices to minimise water and chemical waste. Rethink your commute: Opt for walking, cycling, or public transportation when possible to reduce your carbon footprint. Plan ocean-friendly meals: Choose sustainable seafood options, reduce food waste, and explore plant-based alternatives when cooking.       3. Reimagine your impact: Join a beach cleanup: Gather your friends and family and give your local coastline a spring clean, collecting plastic debris and making a tangible difference. Support ocean conservation initiatives: Donate to Reef Check Australia or other organizations working to protect our reefs and marine life. Become a citizen scientist: Participate in Reef Check Australia's citizen science programs and contribute valuable data to ocean research and conservation efforts. Remember, no action is too small! Every step you take to unclutter your habits, refresh your routines, and reimagine your impact contributes to a collective wave of positive change for the ocean. Let's embrace the fresh energy of spring and transform our everyday choices into powerful actions for a healthier ocean. Join Reef Check Australia, unclutter your ocean footprint, refresh your routines, and reimagine a future where our seas thrive! Together, we can make a splash this Spring News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland Gold Coast Whale Festival Written by Reef Ambassador, Adrienne Soteriou On 13 July 2024, Reef Check Australia attended the annual Gold Coast Whale Festival. Set against a beautiful ocean backdrop at Burleigh Heads, the festival was perfectly situated for front-row seats to the main event – the annual humpback whale migration. Presented by Humpbacks and highrises, the festival is a celebration of the local environment, showcasing marine animal rescue, research and citizen science groups on the Gold Coast. Our Reef Check ambassadors shared the work that Reef Check Australia does with interested community members, encouraged people to get involved, and even learnt a thing or two from the engaging science presentations held throughout the day (did you know the dugong’s closing living relative is an elephant?). And of course, the day was made complete by spotting whales in the distance. Thank you to our volunteers Eleonora, Paul and Adrienne who attended the event. Reef Check Acknowledge the people of the Yugambeh language region of the Gold Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project has received funding support from The City of Gold Coasts Catchment and Citizen Science Grants Program. Noosa Parks Association Friday Forum 🌿✨ Thank you to the Noosa Parks Association! 🌟 A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined our General Manager, Jodi Salmond at the Noosa Parks Association Friday Environment Forum on July 26th. With over 50 attendees, we journeyed through Antarctica together, exploring leadership, environmental stewardship, and the power of awe. 🐧❄️ From Jodi; 'As a participant in the Homeward Bound Women in STEMM program, I shared my transformative expedition to Antarctica, where science, leadership, and sustainability intersect. This journey reinforced the critical importance of global collaboration in environmental conservation and personal growth. The feedback truly touched me: "The audience was held in awe with your stories and amazing photos on Friday. We all had a wonderful morning thanks to you. Antarctica is a very special place, but you brought it to life with your energy and enthusiasm." Thank you for making this experience so memorable! Let's continue to advocate for sustainable practices and inspire others to address climate challenges with strong leadership and a sense of awe for our planet. 🌍💙 Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Noosa region, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. Moreton Bay Green Island - Reef Health Survey By Team Leader, Jodi Salmond.🌿🌊 Green Island West, Winter Survey - July 2024 ❄️✨ On our recent winter survey of Green Island West, we were greeted with stunning conditions—clear skies, calm seas, and crystal-clear water. It had been approximately six months since our last visit to this site, part of our ongoing partnership with the Port of Brisbane to study sediment movement and its impacts on the shallow reef habitats of Moreton Bay. The water temperature was a brisk 14°C, the coldest we've recorded in Moreton Bay for a winter survey. Despite the chill, the visibility was excellent, allowing us to observe the reef in detail. However, we noticed a significant sediment load covering most of the corals, accompanied by a considerable amount of algae. This included nutrient indicator algae, which have become more prevalent in recent years, as well as several species of macroalgae typically associated with warmer conditions and often seen seasonally. Interestingly, we found no target fish species at this site, which is quite unusual. This observation highlights the dynamic nature of this ecosystem and the importance of continuous monitoring to understand these changes better. Our surveys are crucial in helping us understand the impacts of sedimentation on these vital coral habitats. Thank you to the Port of Brisbane for their support, to Wet Boat Hire for getting us to our sites, and to our amazing team of volunteers for their dedication, even in the chilliest waters! We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Danggar (Green Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. Peaks to Points Festival - Rocklea  Written by Reef Ambassador, Christina Tan It was a beautiful sunny Winter’s day in Brisbane, bustling with energy as many stallholders supporting a wide variety of environmental causes began setting up for family day at Oxley Creek Common. The wind offered some challenges, however we also knew some tricks, so we pulled through and held the fort down. Families began trickling in, meanwhile, entertainment was in full swing with a variety of food trucks, performers and activities available for kids including face painting, bird box painting and a petting zoo. A steady flow of interested visitors approached the Reef Check Australia stall, commending us on all the work being done, as well as sharing a lot of surprise that we were here completely of our own volition! It just goes to show what an impact the amazing and dedicated volunteers of Reef Check Australia have. Next time, we will have even more things to share and spread even more awareness. The day proceeded with playing a few fun “Who Am I’ photo card games with kids and even adults! Another great activity of the day was the “Which coral are you?” personality quiz. Quite a bit of interest was garnered in the diving work including surveying, and a few passed on their details to sign up to the email list. All in all, thankyou to Peaks to Points for having us be part of such a fun event, bringing together many like-minded people in order to celebrate some of the great ongoing efforts and to share that passion with the wider community. A big thank you to the Reef Check Australia team, including all the volunteers for all their help from setup to pack down on the day; Ilha Byrne and Christina Tan! Reef Check Acknowledge the Quandamooka people, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and future. Reef Check Australia activities within the Moreton Bay region are supported by the Port of Brisbane. Moreton Bay St Helena Island - Reef Health Survey By Team Leader, Jodi Salmond🌿🌊 Palindrome, St Helena Reef Health Survey ❄️✨ In the first week of August, we conducted a reef health survey at Palindrome, located off St Helena Island in Moreton Bay. We were greeted with beautiful sunny weather, and the water was incredibly clear, though still quite cold at 15°C, reminding us that winter was still very much present. During our survey, we observed patchy areas of both hard and soft coral, along with some sponges scattered across the site. Unfortunately, like other recent surveys, we recorded no target fish species, a trend that underscores the ongoing changes in our local marine environment. The site was also marked by significant amounts of both macroalgae and nutrient indicator algae, along with a noticeable presence of silt covering the area. These findings highlight the delicate and changing nature of the reef ecosystem at Palindrome and the wider Moreton Bay. Continuous monitoring is essential to better understand these shifts and inform conservation efforts. Our work, supported by the Port of Brisbane, aims to shed light on these dynamic ecosystems and guide conservation efforts. We extend our gratitude to Wet Boat Hire for their support in getting us to our survey sites and to our dedicated team of volunteers who braved the cold waters to contribute to this important work. We also thank the Port of Brisbane for their ongoing support in making these surveys possible. We acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Quandamooka Country, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place. We pay our respects to their elders past, present, and future. Great Barrier Reef Lodestone Reef - Townsville - Reef Health Survey Written by Team Leader, Jenni Calcraft. Last month, our team conducted a survey at Gemma's Bommie and South Reef, part of the Lodestone Reef system. Despite facing severe impacts from coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish and cyclone damage in previous years, we're pleased to have observed a slow but steady recovery in hard coral cover! 🪸🌟 While we counted fewer fish crossing our transect line during our survey this year, the site is still vibrant with a high number of anemones—Nemo’s favourite home! 🐠🪸 South Reef remains an intriguing spot for eco-enthusiasts, showcasing resilient ecosystems and stunning large bommies. Thankyou to Reef Ecologic for providing vessel support and of course for organising the whale show with amazing visibility. Also, a special shout out to Maddy for volunteering her valuable time to travel from Cairns to ensure this trip would go ahead! We could not have done this with you! These surveys were conducted on the traditional lands and sea country of the Wulgurukaba, Bindal and Manbarra People. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. Offshore Townsville Surveys are part of Reef Ecologic’s Integrated Coral Reef Citizen Science 2.0 Program, funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Shute Harbour – Land based Clean Up  On an absolutely glorious Sunday our small team of volunteers undertook 2 beach clean ups in Shute Harbour. We started on the small beach adjoining the large carpark and collected 2kg of debris which included 197 pieces of hard plastic fragments, 35 pieces of soft plastic film, broken glass, polystyrene, a 20ltr plastic drum and numerous other bits and pieces. We then headed slightly west to a longer stretch of beach which is fringed by mangroves. At this site we collected 54.5kgs of debris and this does not include the large pieces of metal and tyre that we did not have the resources to deal with. We did retrieve a chair with matching footstool, a large boat fender, a jockey wheel and large plastic buoy. Whilst we collected a variety of items, we only found 50 pieces of hard plastic fragments, which is good compared to the first site, but we did collect 26 pieces of polystyrene and lots of rope scraps. Erosion of the bank is evident along this stretch of beach and there is an abandoned house whose concrete deck sits precariously on the very edge, a victim of past cyclones. Our cleanups were made possible by the generous support of Aurizon. These activities took place on the traditional lands of the Gia and Ngaro people and we pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.   Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Humpback Highway by Vanessa Pirotta This very easy to read book gives an insight into what we do and don't know about whales. Vanessa shares her experiences on working to understand these majestic creatures and includes some snippets of information that could be handy for a trivia night! I highly recommend this book to anyone with the slightest interest in whales. "Word on the Reef" podcast dives into stories from the GBR Presented by Tanya Murphy, conservationist, scuba instructor and marine naturalist each podcast discusses issues and information surrounding the Great Barrier Reef. Check Out Dive Magazine for more information and links to podcast. Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Yeti Crab! Another marine curio brought to you by Dive Magazine, blind and hairy this could be described as the Goldilocks Crab. Read now in: Dive Magazine Orca Calf at Ningaloo The first sighting of a baby Orca off the Exmouth coast in Western Australia in 3 years has researchers excited. Read now in: ABC News Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Sun 15 Sep | Your Mates Brewery Raffles - come along to Your Mates at Warana, enjoy some live music and great food and buy some raffle tickets to support us. Great prizes up for grabs. Wed 18 Sep | Exploring active conservation (Sunshine Coast Biosphere) - Caloundra Power Boat Club, 5.30pm - 7.30pm. For more information and to register head to event brite  Mon 30 Sep | Ambassador training starts. Visit Our website for more information. Plus there will be lots more coming up soon so remember to follow us on socials. Whilst things have taken a back seat on the Coast to Corals talks, remember you can always watch past episodes by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia

Dear Friend In the past few weeks, our teams have been active both on and off the water. We've been conducting surveys, attending local events to promote reef conservation, and sharing ways people can make a difference from the comfort of their own homes. As another icy blast hits our shores, we're busy planning additional activities. We also have ambassador and surveyor training scheduled for later in the year, so be sure to check out our website for more information. This months email includes: Action of the Month: Master Skills, Master Change: Unleash Your Volunteer Potential News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Master Skills, Master Change: Unleash Your Volunteer Potential This August, Reef Check Australia invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and ocean impact through the "Master Skills, Master Change" program. Dive into the science of the ocean, hone practical skills for conservation, and become a vital force for protecting our precious reefs. Here's how you can Master Skills, Master Change: Free Online Workshops: Join any one of the series of engaging online workshops throughout National Science Week. Learn everything from coral reef identification and marine debris classification to data analysis and effective public outreach. These interactive sessions will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a Reef Check Australia volunteer. Virtual Citizen Science Challenges: Put your newfound skills to the test! Participate in fun, online citizen science challenges throughout August. Analyse real-world data, contribute to vital research, and experience the thrill of scientific discovery, all from the comfort of your home.  Connect and Collaborate: Join our vibrant online community! Share your learning experiences, discuss challenges, and connect with fellow ocean enthusiasts. Forge friendships, gain inspiration, and discover the power of collective action for the ocean. Become a Reef Check Volunteer: Once you've mastered your skills, take the next step and join us as a Reef Check Australia volunteer. Apply your knowledge in real-world surveys, contribute to critical data collection, and make a tangible difference for our precious reefs. Master Skills, Master Change is more than just learning – it's a transformative journey. Gain confidence, build valuable skills, connect with a passionate community, and become a champion for the ocean. During National Science Week, ignite your curiosity, unleash your potential, and join us in shaping a brighter future for our underwater world. Remember, no prior experience is needed! Whether you're a seasoned science enthusiast or simply curious about the ocean, this program offers something for everyone. Take the first step, dive into the world of reef conservation, and discover the empowering connection between personal growth and positive change for our planet. Get ready to Master Skills, Master Change, and become a true ocean hero! News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland Logan Eco Action Festival On Sunday 2 June, Reef Check Australia attended the Logan Eco Action Festival. The festival was held at the Griffith University Meadowbrook campus, and is a celebration of our local environment, both terrestrial and marine, with stallholders from various groups sharing their top tips to live a more sustainable and eco-friendly life. Our Reef Ambassadors chatted with visitors about the citizen science work that Reef Check Australia does, who were eager to learn more about the importance of our local reefs. Through conversations with community members (including a visit from Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis!), we hoped to inspire others to make sustainable choices for our oceans. Thank you to our volunteers Elena, Paul, and Adrienne, who attended the event. Reef Check Australia acknowledges the Yuggera, Turrbal and Yugambeh people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which the festival was held and pays its respects to elders past and present. Logan Eco Action Festival is a Logan City Council initiative. Reef Check Australia activities within the Moreton Bay region are supported by the Port of Brisbane. Mudjimba Island - Reef Health Survey Written by Gabriella Scata; Reef Check Australia survey volunteer: The Reef Check Australia team headed to Mudjimba Island on Sunday 9 June, a site that has been surveyed annually since 2007. The dark cliffs of the whale-shaped "Old Woman Island" stood out majestically over the calm turquoise waters on this beautiful warm winter day. These waters are home to a diverse reef, with a good balance between hard and soft corals. Various patches of leathery soft corals create a particularly stunning view, enriched by the occasional gorgonian and branching soft coral. The conditions were perfect, with visibility around 10m and only a slight swell. This year, the team detected a slightly higher number of bleached corals, mostly hard corals. This was around 5-10% of the coral population surveyed up from 1% in 2023. The percentage of bleaching for each coral colony was around 60%, similar to last year. This is not surprising given that the GBR has experienced its 5th mass bleaching event in only 8 years this summer. Fortunately, coral damage appeared limited, with only a few Drupella snails detected at each site and a small number of other impacts such as fishing lines and unknown scars. Turf, crustose, coralline and Halimeda algae dominated the scene along with a variety of corals. A low number of target invertebrates and fish species was detected, in line with the previous year. These included a banded cleaner shrimp, a few cute baby bubble-tip anemones, some butterflyfish and snappers. However, this shallow reef boasts a high diversity of nudibranchs and sea stars and a few crinoids as well.  These include the eye-catching blue sea star (Linckia laevigata) and the black-spotted yellow nudibranch (Phyllidia ocellata).  The team was even lucky enough to encounter a small cuttlefish, a hawksbill turtle, a moray eel and a few crested morwongs. It was a pleasure to explore these reefs and their secret life. A big thanks to the team of Blue Tortuga, who were amazing and offered us a relaxed and caring atmosphere. Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Councils Environment Levy Partnerships Grant. Kings Beach - Reef Health Survey Written by survey diver and trainer; Jodi Salmond. Utilising our super keen and dedicated local surveyors, we quickly mobilized to check out our long term reef health monitoring site at Kings Beach boat ramp for our annual reef health monitoring. With the stellar support of our local surface watch we were ready to dive into the crisp winter water and explore what awaited us! Despite the chilly water, the conditions were perfect with minimal waves, beautiful sunshine, and clear water. Kings Beach, a fringing reef located approximately 100m offshore, adjacent to a frequently used boat ramp near Caloundra's popular beachfront, was our destination. Our site sits at a depth of 3-4 meters, and was first added to our survey list in 2009 to better understand the reefs off the southern Sunshine Coast. This site is known for being heavily impacted by floods. Over the last couple of years the changes in the Pumicestone Passage has affected the site, so we were interested to see what changes might have occurred in the past 12 months. Notably, Kings Beach has experienced significant flooding events in 2011 and 2022, which have affected the coral populations. However, this year, we observed a surprising shift: the seasonal macro algae Asparagopsis, which usually blankets the site, was not present at all. Instead, we found an abundance of crustose coralline algae, a reef-building type of algae, along with various other algal species. During our survey, we spotted a couple of species of target fish and invertebrates, including collector urchins. Minimal amounts of rubbish were found, including a few pieces of fishing line and general debris. An interesting observation at this site is the high number of Drupella snails; a small, coral-eating snails. Although not all were found on corals or observed eating them, their consistent presence is noteworthy and may warrant further investigation. Our team also documented nudibranchs, a variety of other fish, and even a few large birds, including at least one eagle, soaring overhead as we surfaced. This site is best visited from the boat ramp during optimal conditions, which we were fortunate to experience today. The most extensive coral cover lies just off the boat ramp itself, with plenty of healthy hard corals thriving in just two to three meters of water. We noted a significant number of encrusting corals, sponges, and sea stars along the length of the transect. We also collected a series of photo transects to be uploaded into the Australian Institute of Marine Science’s Reef Cloud program, which uses artificial intelligence to analyse images. A special thanks to the team including our surface watch and our survey divers who made this survey possible. Reef Check acknowledges the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present, and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Council’s Environmental Levy Partnerships Grant. Reef Blitz - Wonder Reef on the Gold Coast  Written by Team Leader and survey diver, Jodi Salmond This June, we had the incredible opportunity to join a full crew of avid divers at Wonder Reef on the Gold Coast. Our mission was to explore and capture images of the thriving marine life on these fascinating structures. The team was thrilled to witness the abundance of life in the top 18 metres of the reef. We encountered an absolutely massive grouper, possibly the biggest any of us had ever seen—it was nearly as big as the divers! We were also visited by a school of spotted eagle rays and surrounded by countless fish darting past us. The reef was teeming with octopuses, nudibranchs, sponges, and even some corals already growing on the structures. Wonder Reef on the Gold Coast is the world’s first buoyant reef, situated 2.5 kilometres offshore from Main Beach. Comprising nine large sculptural structures, sitting at a depth of 30m at the bottom, it resembles a giant kelp forest and serves as both a stunning underwater art piece and a habitat for diverse marine life. Installed in 2021, the structures were designed by artist Daniel Templeman and constructed with Subcon Blue Solution, blending art, science, and engineering, making it a premier diving spot year-round​, enhancing tourism and promoting marine conservation. It was fascinating to see the diverse marine life that has established itself there over time. The purpose of this trip was to capture as many photos as possible of the various animals, and benthic categories. This effort is part of this year's Reef Blitz for the area put together by Reef Check Australia. Our primary goal was to conduct a bio-inventory of all nine structures in June as part of a winter Reef Blitz. We're particularly interested in comparing the marine life observed in winter with what we'll find in summer. This will help us understand any changes in diversity and abundance with the seasons in this region. The team was super excited to get back and upload all their photos to the iNaturalist website, as teams of scientists behind the scenes helped identify what we found. If you're interested in joining us for the next event, make sure to follow our facebook page. We'll be announcing the details of our next dive soon. Spaces are limited, so don't miss out! Remember, you don't have to wait for an official Reef Check Australia trip to explore Wonder Reef. just contact one of the local dive operators. Stay tuned for our summer survey! Big thanks to all the divers who participated in the event so far, and all those who continue to upload their photos. Thankyou also to Gold Coast Dive Adventures for getting us to the site and showing us around these magnificent structures. Reef Check Acknowledge the people of the Yugambeh language region of the Gold Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. Great Barrier Reef Middle Reef - Townsville - Reef Health Survey Middle Reef is a surprisingly pretty reef situated between Townsville and Magnetic Island. Due to the proximity of this site to the port, visibility can be limited and silt levels are typically medium to high. With the persistent strong winds we have been experiencing, this has delayed our survey at this site, but finally the weather smiled upon us and we headed out, excited to see how the reef is coping. Whilst the recorded amount of hard coral at Site 1 was down on our last survey (from 48% to 20% of the substrate), Site 2 was slightly higher (up from 48% to 52%). Rock (including rock covered with turf algae) made up the majority of the balance of the substrate. Coral bleaching was detected on most transects at each site, with an average of 9% of an individual colony bleached but less than 1% of the population affected. Trash and other damage was minimal with a few anemones being the only target invertebrate observed. This project is made possible through support from Townsville City Council through their Creek to Coral program, and the Integrated Coral Reef Citizen Science 2.0 Program funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. We would like to thank Dave from Affordable Charters for supplying the boat and tanks and getting us safely to our sites. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on where these activities take place, the Manbarra and Bwgcolman people of Palm Island, and the Wulgurukaba and Bindal People of the Townsville and Magnetic Island region. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today. Gordons Beach - Bowen – Landbased Clean Up  A gorgeous winters Sunday saw our team of amazing Reef Check and community volunteers (from Bowen and Airlie Beach) undertake a beach clean up at Gordon’s Beach, just south of Bowen, QLD. This beach is opposite the Big Mango, a local tourist information centre, and great place for a mango ice cream or the infamous mango sorbet. This beach has 4WD access to the waterfront with a track running along the beach just above the high tide line and is fringed by mangroves making it a popular fishing location.  The strand line contained large amounts of pumice but not as many small plastic fragments as we were expecting. Our team scoured the shoreline before heading into the mangroves where we retrieved discarded, decaying crab pots, fishing line, plastic bags, ropes, fragments of fabric and even a section of a large green wheelie bin. A long section of rubber was observed but had been in place so long that it was impossible to remove as it was woven amongst the roots of the mangrove trees. Several large tyres and some illegal dumping of items too large to remove was also observed up on the shoreline and this has been reported to the authorities. Overall, we removed 18kgs of debris which included 560 hard plastic fragments, 26 pieces of polystyrene, 41 pieces of soft plastic film remnants, 22 plastic food packaging items, 11 plastic drink bottles and 19 aluminium cans.  A big thanks to the volunteers who gave up their Sunday afternoon to help out at this event. This clean up was conducted on the traditional lands of the Juru, Gia and Ngaro peoples. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. This project is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government's Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Townsville EcoFiesta The sun was shining and the crowds were out and about for the Eco Fiesta in Townsville. Held in the Anderson Gardens, this venue provided a wonderful backdrop for all the amazing information and market stalls which were part of this fiesta. The free native plants offered by several stalls were a big hit among the visitors, along with the face painting and an interesting story and display by Jo from Cape Creative based on the days theme of butterflies. Our team were kept busy quizzing our young visitors on our interactive “beach clean up” box; asking them to guess how many pieces of plastic were in the jar; and identifying the marine critters on our “what am I” cards. We were also able to enlighten the adult people on who Reef Check Australia is and the important work that we do and how they can become involved or simply make a difference by making small changes in their daily lives. It was great to observe people utilising the Townsville City Council Cup Library, where people could select a cup from the “bookcase” located near the coffee stall, use this instead of a single use coffee cup and then return it to the wash-station, where it was washed and reshelved for re-use. This is a great initiative and one we hope to observe at more events. This project is made possible through support from Townsville City Council through their Creek to Coral program. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on where these activities take place, the Wulgurukaba of Gurambilbarra and Yunbenun, Bindal, Gugu Badhun and Nywaigi people. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today. Waite Bay - Beach Clean Up  Waite Bay (or White Bay) is located on Haslewood Island, to the east of Whitsunday Island. An extensive fringing reef lies between Haslewood Island and Lupton Island, creating Waite Bay.  After postponing several times due to strong winds making it very uncomfortable to get to site our team finally made it in beautiful conditions. Our aim was to conduct a beach clean up at a small beach in Waite Bay as part of Tangaroa Blue Foundation’s ReefClean project. Due to the fringing reef within the bay, our team disembarked the boat in Windy Bay (on the western side of Haslewood Island) to walk over the hill to the beach. As soon as we reached shore (on the leeward side of the island), we encountered debris which was not a good sign. Upon approach to the target beach the team was halted by the sight of copious amounts of plastic debris on the beach. We all took a deep breath and commenced the huge task of collecting as much debris as possible in the time we had on the island. Our team were filling empty oil bottles, milk bottles, 5 gallon drums, buckets (all of which were found on the beach) with small pieces of hard plastic, trying to consolidate the haul to fit into the bags we had. We certainly made a visible difference to the beach, hauling out 39 kilograms of mostly hard plastic debris which included 1083 plastic bottle tops, 16 toothbrushes, 6 razors and more than 6000 pieces of hard plastic remnants. Much of the debris was weathered and included some items that were clearly distinguishable as foreign items. Thanks to John at Whitsunday Paradise Explorer for flexibility in getting us to site. These surveys were conducted on the traditional lands and sea country of the Ngaro People of the Whitsundays. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by Tangaroa Blue through ReefClean; a project funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.  ReefClean is a project to remove and reduce marine debris impacting the Great Barrier Reef. Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Brought to you by the creator of Octopus Teacher, this book encourages us to reconnect with nature. Amphibious Soul by Craig Foster League of Extraordinary Divers - Faith Ortins In this episode Tec Clark chats with Faith Ortins who is an American diving legend. She become a Tec diver when it was considered a mans sport and was responsible for encouraging DUI to develop women's drysuits. Listen to the podcast on Scuba Guru Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Shrinking Grey Whales! A study has revealed that Grey Whales are shrinking and this could impact their future health. Read now in: Dive Magazine 'Cocaine Sharks' in Brazil Illegal drug production is thought to be responsible for harmful substances in Brazilian waters. Read now in: National Geographic Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Sat 10 Aug | Moreton Bay Research Station Open Day. Visit marine.uq.edu.au for more information. Sun 18 Aug | Land based clean up Whitsundays - follow our facebook page for more details. Mon 30 Sep | Ambassador training starts. Visit Our website for more information. Plus there will be lots more coming up soon so remember to follow us on socials. If you missed any of our Coast to Coral online events, remember you can always catch-up by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia

Dear Friend We've been experiencing some incredible weather recently, and despite the chill, it's been keeping our teams incredibly busy. From conducting surveys and underwater clean-ups to training our surveyors and attending various events, there's been no shortage of action. A big congratulations to our newly trained surveyors who have successfully completed their in-water training and are now gearing up for upcoming surveys. As Plastic Free July kicks off, be sure to stay tuned for all the exciting events happening in your area. Join us in making a difference—pop along and get involved! This months email includes: Action of the Month: Unveiling the Plastic Pendulum - From Reliance to Revolution News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Unveiling the Plastic Pendulum - From Reliance to Revolution This July, Reef Check Australia invites you to join a bold experiment: Let's examine our plastic pendulum. For one month, we'll swing from passive consumers to conscious actors, understanding the plastic web we've woven and taking control of the future. Start with a Self-Discovery Dive: Conduct a personal plastic audit. Unpack your pantry, unpack your habits. How much plastic clings to your life? Analyse, categorise, and be honest. This isn't judgment, it's a crucial step towards mindful change. From Awareness to Action: Immerse yourself in the ocean's vulnerability. Read articles, watch documentaries, witness firsthand the plastic tide washing over coral reefs. Understanding the scope of the issue amplifies our responsibility and ignites the fires of change. Small Swaps, Big Impact: Forget overwhelming overhauls. Focus on simple, achievable modifications. Ditch plastic straws, carry a reusable water bottle, embrace cloth bags, choose cardboard over plastic packaging. Every tiny shift ripples outward, creating a wave of collective impact. This July, let's swing the pendulum in unison. Dive deeper, understand the plastic dance, and choreograph a new routine – one where respect for the ocean guides our every step. Join Reef Check Australia, become a conscious consumer, and dance towards a plastic-free future. Together, we can rewrite the rhythm of our planet, one mindful choice at a time. Let's make July a month of conscious reflection and impactful action, swinging the plastic pendulum towards a healthier ocean and a brighter future for all News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland Tallebudgera Creek - Clean Up Dive Reef Check Australia volunteers were blessed with some amazing weather on 13 April 2024 for our annual Tallebudgera cleanup event. We started the day collecting items from the shoreline around Kevin Gates park, before heading underwater for a dive cleanup. In good news, there was definitely a reduction in the amount of rubbish collected around the park, with fewer plastic items collected than last year. However, we still collected quite a bit of fishing waste including fishing line and plastic bait bags. Underwater, we collected an overwhelming amount of fishing line, lures and hooks. One diver alone collected over 20 pieces of fishing line, 5 lures, 7 hooks, 8 weights, and 2 bottles. In total we collected over 2 kg of rubbish, with the majority collected underwater. Remember to fish responsibly and make use of designated waste bins. This goes for any waste items being disposed of near our natural waterways and beaches. Plastic items and fishing line can be ingested by marine life or cause entanglements which can be fatal. Plastic items in particular have also been shown to leach toxic chemicals into the environment. Not to mention that rubbish detracts from the beauty and cleanliness of our natural land/seascapes. Simply disposing of your rubbish in the correct bins after a day at the beach, or avoiding single-use plastic items can go a long way. Let’s keep our community clean together! Reef Check acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We would also like to thank all our sponsors and supporters whose make these events possible. And of course, a massive shoutout to all our amazing Tallebudgera volunteers: Gabriella Scata, Jarrod Cameron, Sabrina Morrison and Carly Parry. This project has received funding support from the City of Gold Coasts Catchment and Citizen Science Grants Program. Landcare Awards Congratulations to all the incredible nominees and winners of the 2023/2024 QLD Landcare Awards! We joined people from all over Queensland a couple of weeks ago virtually watch the QLD Landcare Awards ceremony last week, and what an inspiring event it was! A huge congratulations to all the incredible nominees and winners. Your dedication to protecting Queensland's natural resources and building resilient landscapes is truly awe-inspiring. From sustainable agriculture to community partnerships, to clean ups above and below the waters surface, education and community outreach, each project showcased amazing innovation and a deep passion for our environment. We're so grateful for all the landcare heroes out there making a difference! Let's give a big shout out to these amazing Queenslanders.   La Balsa - Mooloolah River - Reef Health Survey Written by survey diver, Sally Richards On the Sunshine Coast, near the Mooloolah River mouth, is a site at La Balsa north, which was set up in 2018 due to growing interest in the area. The site runs parallel to the shore, at a depth of 5m. It is a popular swimming and fishing location for locals and visitors alike due to its easy access and protection from the wind. It is dominated by rock and sand, but is also home to the occasional nudibranch, and rare sights like pipefish and seahorses have also been reported! The reports thus far had been during the months of October to February, so it was interesting to see what, if any, differences could be seen during the outlier of June. While perhaps not relevant to the month itself, the most current three reports have shown a significant increase in Butterfly Fish seen. Snapper over the past two years have also proven to be a lot more abundant than the previous years, which is a promising sign for the area, despite its popularity for fishing. There was also an unusual sighting of two large fish, including Barracuda! Unfortunately, however, the impacts of trash have also been steadily increasing at La Balsa. The main culprits being a sharp uprise in glass bottles and fishing line, though car tyres and even a “disposable” vape had also been found. While we should all understand the detriment to the environment, and in turn, ourselves, in regards to plastic in our waterways, we need to understand that glass bottles also have no place there! A study from the University of South Hampton has found that glass bottles are four times more environmentally damaging than plastic – when you consider the amount of energy and natural resources used during creation and shipping. While plastic bottles can be reused 12-20 times, most glass bottles (wine and beer especially) are thrown out after a single use. According to the CSIRO, many countries are close to recycling 100 per cent of their glass. But in Australia, more than a quarter of the glass we consume becomes rubbish that goes to landfill. This is obviously not even including the ones found in our local waterways! Please remember not to litter, and to spread the word if you do see it happening, from shore or boats alike – Keep Australia Beautiful! (And PS there is such a thing as bio-degradable fishing line!) Thank you to our Reef Check Australia survey divers for collecting and disposing of all they could, responsibly. Big thanks to Jodi, Phil, Christa and Sally for their ongoing efforts, and congratulations to Sally for completing her RCA survey course on the weekend, and following it up with her first survey for this event. Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Councils Environment Levy Partnerships Grant. Mudjimba Island - The Ledge - Reef Health Survey Written by Misa Nirasawa, survey diver in training; After 4 months of high seas, strong winds and plenty of rain the Reef Check Australia team eagerly set out to survey Mudjimba (Old Woman) Island, a site we visit annually and last surveyed in April 2023. We were happy to discover a relatively small amount of coral bleaching at this particular Mudjimba Island Site, with only 5% of the overall population bleached. However, those bleached colonies were heavily impacted, with an average of 60-70% bleaching. We also recorded a number of bleached anemones without fish. At Mudjimba shallow reef, a mix of hard corals, soft corals, rocky substrate and algae provides habitat for many species, from small invertebrates to larger animals. For instance, we recorded nudibranchs, a lobster, wobbegong sharks blending into the reef floor and a sea turtle feasting on algae. If devastating bleaching was to occur at a mass scale at Mudjimba Island, it would affect all these creatures who call this reef home. Sadly, we also recorded entangled fishing line and boat anchor damage on both hard and soft corals. As a new member of Reef Check Australia, this was my in-water training day to become a scuba surveyor and a PADI Reef Check EcoDiver. The instructor was very knowledgeable and made it a very fun experience for the whole team. I am very excited for my upcoming journey with Reef Check Australia. Thankyou to RCA Instructor, Jodi Salmond, and co-surveyor-in-training dive buddy, Sally Richards. You both did fantastically, and we are so excited to see you in the water! A big thanks to the team of Blue Tortuga for getting us to our site. Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by the Sunshine Coast Councils Environment Levy Partnerships Grant. Great Barrier Reef Florence Bay - Magnetic Island - Reef Health Survey Our team headed out to beautiful Magnetic Island on an amazing day to survey the reefs that lie within Florence Bay. These reefs are accessible from shore, with the corals occurring on the rock walls on either side of the bay, making this a popular snorkelling spot. The amount of hard coral st Site 1 decreased slightly from our last survey (50% down to 40%), but Site 2 saw an increase (from 44% to 52%) with slightly more rubble detected at both sites. Nutrient indicator algae was not recorded on the point transect at either site which is a decrease from previous years. Coral bleaching was only recorded on 3 of the 8 transects, with less than 1% of the population impacted. Overall the impacts recorded were minimal however we did find one fin, one mask strap and one mask (minus the strap) at different locations along the transect on Site 2. This project is made possible through support from Townsville City Council through their Creek to Coral program, and the Integrated Coral Reef Citizen Science 2.0 Program funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. We would like to also thank Dave from Affordable Charters for supplying the boat and tanks and getting us to our sites. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on where these activities take place, the Manbarra and Bwgcolman people of Palm Island, and the Wulgurukaba and Bindal People of the Townsville and Magnetic Island region. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today. Fitzroy Island – Clean Up Above and Below water Our Reef Check Australia GBR team recently embarked on a beach and underwater clean-up at Welcome Bay, off the coast of Cairns, as part of the ReefClean program. 🚮 From removing glass bottles to fishing lines, every piece of trash collected makes a difference. We stumbled upon unexpected treasures like a car tyre, a decommissioned mooring line, and lots of fishing lines (which we removed) next to a mooring block hosting a plethora of marine life! No fish or turtles will get entangled here on our watch! We gathered over 6 metres of fishing line and 9kg of debris from underwater and the sandy shores. 👏 Huge thanks to our partners at Reef Restoration Foundation for supplying scuba cylinders to the team and Fitzroy Island Sports Hub for storage of gear. Of course, thankyou to volunteers Jules and Maddy for their time and good vibes. Special shout out to Jules Lim for volunteering with Reef Check Australia for 10 years now and, even better, unbeknownst to us, celebrating her 700th dive with a clean-up! Reef Check acknowledges the Gurabana Gunggandji people as the Traditional Owners of the land and sea country where these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging. The ReefClean program is funded by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and delivered by Tangaroa blue and several partner organisations, including Reef Check Australia. Join the movement for a cleaner, healthier Great Barrier Reef! Horseshoe Bay - Bowen - Reef Health Survey With winds having abated and visibility vastly improved we jumped in at Horseshoe Bay in Bowen to conduct our inaugural Reef Check Australia reef health survey at this site. This site faces east and has fringing reef along the rocks on either side of the bay, plus a reef that runs almost right across the bay at around 4m depth. It is also home to “Bywa” which is part of the underwater art trail. “Bywa” comes from a traditional word of the Kala Lagaw Ya dialect of the Western islands of Torres Strait and translates to “waterspout”. Whilst the sculpture sits on the sand on the southern side of the bay, we conducted our survey along the corals on the northern side of the bay. This site is not subject to currents but is impacted by easterly and south-easterly winds. We chose the northern side of the bay to encapsulate the most reef at snorkel depth. Hard coral was the dominant substrate at 61%, dominated by massive and branching forms followed by rock (including rock with turf algae) at 21%. We recorded an average colony bleaching of 10% during the impact survey but at less than 1% of the population. Target invertebrates were not observed but fish were recorded with 20 butterflyfish the most dominant. We also conducted a CoralWatch survey and an Eye on the Reef Rapid Survey with all data uploaded to the relevant websites. This survey were conducted on the traditional lands and sea country of the Ngaro, Gia and Juru People of the Whitsundays. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. This project is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government's Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Alva Beach - Ayr - Beach Clean Up Collaboration On a glorious autumn day, two of our Reef Check team joined the team from Wildlife Surrounds, AUIP (American Universities International Programs Limited) and UT Austin to undertake a beach clean up and AUSMAP sampling at Alva Beach, just east of Ayr, QLD. Following a brief classroom presentation, the team headed out onto the beach and collected an assortment of debris which they catalogued and counted, with all data uploaded to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI) database. The students also split into groups and were shown the process for sampling microplastics using the AUSMAP methodology. It was fantastic to receive feedback from the students revealing their new appreciation for the impacts of litter on the marine environment. A big thanks to Wildlife Surrounds for inviting us to be part of this event. This clean up was conducted on the traditional lands of the Birra Gubba People in the Burdekin region. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. To find out more about Reef Check Australia and how you can get involved check out the website, and sign up for our enews letter to stay up to date! Photos provided by Wildlife Surrounds with permission from students and faculty. Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here We are all aware of the bleaching event happening on the GBR. What is being done to save our reef? In Hot Water by Dr Paul E Hardisty   Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Marrus orthocanna Another marine curio related to the Portuguese man o'war. Read now in: Dive Magazine Big Tiger Sharks at Norfolk Island and scientists want to know why (don't they always?) Read now in: National Geographic Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Sat 13 July | Whale Festival Gold Coast - check out Humpbacks and Highrises on facebook for more details. Sun 21 July | Peaks to Points Family Fun day Rocklea visit https://www.peakstopoints.com.au for more information. Plus there will be lots more coming up soon so remember to follow us on socials. If you missed any of our Coast to Coral online events, remember you can always catch-up by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia

Dear Friend Winter is officially here and the chill in the air is noticeable. Hopefully this means cooler water temperatures which will give our stressed corals some reprieve, not so great for those of us conducting in-water activities as we layer up the neoprene. Winter often brings calmer conditions and clearer waters so lets keep our fingers crossed. This months email includes: Action of the Month: Dive Deep: Discover your Ocean Footprint News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Dive Deep: Discover Your Ocean Footprint! June is the perfect time to dive deep into our personal connection to the ocean! With World Environment Day and World Oceans Day just around the corner, Reef Check Australia's "Dive Deep: Discover Your Ocean Footprint" Action of the Month is tailor-made for mindful exploration and impactful action. Deep Dives for Deeper Understanding: By diving deeper with specific calculators and guides that explore your impact on different areas, like plastic use, seafood choices, and carbon footprint, you can pinpoint where to make the most significant ocean-friendly changes. Here are a couple we have found so far. Quizzes: Planet Ark How Big is Your Footprint? Quiz: This Australian-based quiz calculates your ecological footprint and provides personalized tips for reducing your impact. It also emphasizes local environmental issues and solutions. https://wwf.org.au/get-involved/ecological-footprint-calculator/ ABC Splash! Sustainability Quiz: This interactive quiz from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation is specifically designed for children and teenagers. It uses fun questions and engaging visuals to educate them about their environmental impact and inspire action. https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/could-you-be-more-green-at-home-sustainability-quiz/12307182 Queensland Government Eco Quiz: This regional quiz focuses on environmental issues relevant to Queensland and provides tips for living sustainably in the state. You can also choose other state-specific quizzes tailored to your target audience. https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/ Calculators: Planet Ark's Home Energy Audit: This comprehensive tool helps users assess their home's energy consumption and identify areas for improvement. It provides personalized recommendations for saving energy and reducing your carbon footprint, which ultimately impacts the ocean. https://planetark.org/programs/planet-ark-power WaterCare Calculator: This calculator estimates your household's water usage and offers tips for conserving water, another crucial aspect of minimizing your overall environmental impact, including on the ocean. https://www.ecobud.com.au/support/hydration-calculator Carbon Neutral by 2050 Emissions Calculator: This Australian government tool allows you to estimate your personal carbon footprint and explore different scenarios for reducing it in line with the country's climate goals. This can help individuals understand their contribution to climate change and its influence on ocean health. https://2050calculator.wixsite.com/2050calculator/calculators Beyond Quizzes and calculators: Taking Action: Share Your Footprint: Once you've discovered your ocean footprint, share it with friends and family on social media! Use the hashtag #DiveDeepForTheOcean to spark conversations and inspire collective action. Advocate for Change: Use your newfound knowledge to advocate for ocean-friendly policies and support organizations like Reef Check Australia working tirelessly to protect our seas. Become an Ocean Champion: Commit to one or two actionable changes, be it reducing single-use plastics, choosing sustainable seafood, or supporting coral restoration projects. Every step counts towards a healthier ocean future. Let's make June a month of exploration, education, and empowered action for our beloved oceans. Dive deep, discover your impact, and join the wave of changemakers dedicated to protecting our shared blue planet! Remember, Reef Check Australia is here to support you on your journey. Visit our website for more resources, educational materials, and opportunities to get involved in ocean conservation efforts. Together, we can make a world of difference for the ocean, one conscious choice at a time. News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  Reef Check Australia Makes a Splash at the Australian Coral Reef Symposium! Our team was thrilled to be a part of the recent Australian Coral Reef Symposium (ACRS) held in Perth! We presented two exciting talks based on upcoming research papers utilising valuable data collected by Reef Check Australia volunteers. One presentation focused on coral bleaching trends in Southeast Queensland (SEQ). ☀️ The other explored the power of citizen science over 17 years, analysing reef health data from SEQ. 🪸 The response was fantastic! We connected with attendees from across Australia, all passionate about protecting our coral reefs. It was also a great opportunity to see so many old friends still working in the industry, as well as so many new faces. The ACRS covered a wide range of crucial topics, including threats like crown-of-thorns starfish, innovative technologies, DNA analysis, bleaching impacts, reef resilience, and of course, the power of citizen science. It was inspiring to see such broad representation and enthusiasm for coral reef conservation. Together, we can make a difference! We are always looking for new ways to involve more people, so if you want to know how you can get involved, head on over to www.reefcheckaustralia.org and or follow us on all the socials. Stay tuned for upcoming publications based on the research presented at ACRS! South East Queensland Gold Coast Seaway, Wavebreak Island  - Clean Up Dive Known locally as Wavebreak Island just across from the Gold Coast Seaway, this interesting site is home to a wide array of fish species, as well as being a hotspot for marine debris. Established as a reef health survey location in 2019 by Reef Check Australia in collaboration with Gold Coast City Council, this spot boasts a rocky scree starting at 5m and plunging down to 12m, with a strong current. On the northern side of the wall, the rocky substrate is covered with fishing line. Despite cleaning the area as a part of annual reef surveys in the area, based on the amount of debris that continues to be recorded here, a dedicated clean up dive was organised to actively target marine debris here, as a part of wider clean up Australia day efforts. A total of 3.7kg of debris consisting of fishing line, lures, rope, bits of nets and plastic was removed from this location during the clean up dive. A camp chair, dive mask and glass bottles (adding an addition 3kg to the debris removed) were also removed. A massive shoutout to our amazing team and a heartfelt thank you to Skipper Harry of Gold Coast Dive Adventures for getting us to site, for looking out for us on the surface and for taking care of the boat 🙌🚤 Reef Check Acknowledge the people of the Yugambeh language region of the Gold Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project has received funding support from The City of Gold Coasts Catchment and Citizen Science Grants Program. Ocean Film Festival - Noosa A team of ambassadors and surveyors from Reef Check Australia (RCA) attended this years ‘Ocean Film Festival World Tour’ held at The J Noosa on Thursday 14th March 2024. The sold-out event featured a unique selection of films of varying lengths and styles covering topics such as ocean adventure and exploration, the oceanic environment, marine creatures, ocean related sports, coastal cultures and ocean lovers. The films were inspiring, compelling, sometimes nail biting (see Ice Maiden – Australian solo-sailor Lisa Blair’s circumnavigation of Antarctica) and championed the Ocean Film Festival World Tour’s vision ‘to inspire you to explore, respect, enjoy, and protect our oceans’. Several research and conservation partners including RCA convened information stalls at the festival. Our ambassadors and surveyors responded to a large amount of interest from attendees wanting to learn more about what we do and how to get involved and keep in touch. We also had a chance to network with other stall holders and share information. Thanks to Sarah and her team of organisers from Ocean Film Festival World Tour for putting on such a valuable event and for inviting RCA to be a part of it. Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Noosa region, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.         Green Island, Moreton Bay - Reef Health Survey Moreton Bay is a region adjacent to the city of Brisbane and hosts its port, as well as various other coastal suburbs that encroach onto the bay. Various islands sit within the bay, and are called home to sub-tropical coral reefs, fish, marine megafauna such as dugongs, turtles, and sharks and lots of invertebrates. Reef Check Australia survey divers head to locations within the bay in both summer and winter to monitor the seasonal changes that occur over long periods of time. In late February a team of four surveyors went out into the bay to survey the health of coral reefs and how it’s been faring recently. Reef Check Australia has been monitoring Southeast Queensland reefs since 2007, and Green Island since 2017, as part of a partnership with Port of Brisbane to monitor the effects of activities in the Bay. On this day, we surveyed a site off Green Island on the western side dubbed “Green Island West”. A high level of silt and macroalgae (sargassum) meant the site was a challenging dive, with the water column filled with turbidity. Nevertheless, the surveyors endured and completed the bi-annual survey, finding some hard corals blooming, a small stingray, butterfly fish and snapper! Unfortunately, some human impacts were recorded on the site (a discarded fishing net and additional land based trash). Coral bleaching being recorded in all four transects, in high occurrence. The importance of surveying sites like Green Island cannot be underestimated, for the anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems are generally felt by habitats adjacent to urbanised areas such as this one. Collecting this information allows policymakers to make informed evidence-based decisions when attempting conservation governance. Thank you to Go Dive Brisbane for getting us to our reef health monitoring site. We appreciate that many of the sites we visit are not regularly on the tourist circuit, although we believe they should be! Reef Check Acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Danggar (Green Island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and future. This project is supported by the Port of Brisbane as a part of their environmental monitoring program. Great Barrier Reef Rowes Bay Sustainability House Open Day Written by Pearl Wood. 🌿What an incredible day at the Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre Open Day!🌿 Our team was lucky enough to score a spot at the Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre celebrating their open day. Our team of passionate volunteers set up our vibrant market stall for their open day, adorned with educational materials, interactive displays, and a contagious enthusiasm for sustainability. As the event kicked off, we eagerly engaged with visitors of all ages, sparking thought-provoking conversations and igniting a shared passion for environmental stewardship. Throughout the day, we had the pleasure of connecting with a diverse array of individuals, from young eco-warriors to seasoned environmental advocates. It was heartwarming to witness the genuine curiosity and enthusiasm in their eyes as we conversed. But perhaps the most memorable moment came when we had the honour of meeting with the inspiring  Townsville City Council staff representing the towns sustainable achievements. Their unwavering dedication to environmental conservation and support left us in awe, reaffirming our commitment to protecting our precious reefs and oceans. As the day unfolded, our colourful display became a hub of activity, attracting curious minds and sparking meaningful discussions about the importance of reef health. The children, in particular, were captivated by the colourful corals (fake) and fascinating shells we had on display, eagerly asking questions and soaking up knowledge like sponges. But it wasn't just about spreading awareness; it was also about inspiring action. We encouraged visitors to think critically about their daily habits and how they could make a tangible difference in preserving our planet and the different volunteer opportunities we offer. We thank the Rowes Bay Sustainability Centre for hosting such a remarkable event and the individuals who attended that were eager to live a more sustainable life. This project is made possible through support from Townsville City Council through their Creek to Coral program. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on where these activities take place, the Wulgurukaba of Gurambilbarra and Yunbenun, Bindal, Gugu Badhun and Nywaigi People of the Townsville region. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today. Alma Bay Magnetic Island – Reef Health Surveys  The weather has been proving a challenge for our team this season, but a small group headed over to beautiful Magnetic Island in the hope that conditions would be suitable to survey the reefs that lie within Alma Bay. These reefs are accessible from shore, with the corals occurring on the rock walls on either side of the bay, making this a popular snorkelling and diving spot. The site also hosts the Arcadian Surf Club making it a great area for families. Whilst the visibility was limited it was sufficient to conduct the survey safely. The amount of hard coral detected on transect for both sites has remained consistent with our previous surveys, with less rubble detected. Coral bleaching was detected on both sites, with less than 1% of the population impacted on Site 1 and 2% on Site 2.  Unknown coral damage was the most recorded impact at 5 counts and 11 counts respectively. Target invertebrates were not observed on transect. A big thanks to our amazing team; Rachelle Brown, Jenni Calcraft, Terry Farr, Julie Schubert and our newest member Taylor Hosler, without whom these surveys would not be possible. This project is made possible through support from Townsville City Council through their Creek to Coral program, and the Integrated Coral Reef Citizen Science 2.0 Program funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on where these activities take place, the Manbarra and Bwgcolman people of Palm Island, and the Wulgurukaba and Bindal People of the Townsville and Magnetic Island region. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our community today.   Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Life on the Reef by Andrey Ryanskiy This awesome book which is available as a pdf, presents the mostly sessile inhabitants of coral reefs. "The reef animals and marine plants considered in the book are grouped into 10 phyla: Corals & allies (Cnidaria), Sea Squirts (Tunicata), Sponges (Porifera), Moss Animals (Bryozoa), Comb Jellies (Ctenophora), Brachiopods, Entoprocts, Foraminiferans, Sea Weeds and Cyanobacteria". A great addition to your marine ID library. . Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Naked Sea Butterflies! Beautiful unusual marine creatures. Read now in: Dive Magazine How deep is the deepest blue hole? Deeper than you think! Read now in: Dive Magazine Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Fri 31 May - Sun 2 Jun | Pranafest. Tickets are also available just to attend on the weekend. Head to https://events.humanitix.com/pranafest-2024/tickets to get your tickets. Sun 2 June | Townsville Ecofiesta. For more info https://whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au/events/eco-fiesta-2024 Sun 2 June | Logan Eco Action Festival. For more info head to: https://www.logan.qld.gov.au/environment/leaf Sat 8 June | Marine Bioblitz Bowen - stay tuned for more details Sat 13 July | Whale Festival Gold Coast - check out Humpbacks and Highrises on facebook for more details. If you missed any of our Coast to Coral online events, remember you can always catch-up by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here   and don't forget our annual reports by region are available on our website! Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2024 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia

Dear Friend The last month has been challenging to put it mildly. Strong winds and rough conditions have seen activities, planned, rescheduled and rescheduled again. We thank our volunteers and trainee surveyors for their patience with our constant reorganising, but safety must come first for all of our activities. Fingers crossed the conditions improve this month and stay that way. This months email includes: Action of the Month: Shine Together, Lets celebrate our volunteers month! News from the Field Books and Podcasts Current Coral Affairs Get With the Program Shine Together, Lets celebrate our volunteers month! This May, Reef Check Australia is celebrating the vibrant heartbeat of our organization – our incredible volunteers! National Volunteer Week (May 20-26) shines a spotlight on their passion, dedication, and the priceless impact they make on our ocean. But this month, we're not just celebrating them, we're celebrating everyone who contributes to our ocean's well-being, including YOU! Shine Together: This motto reflects the interconnectedness of our ocean community. Volunteers shine when supported by local partners, and you shine when you participate in our Volunteer Incentive Program, advocate for ocean conservation, or simply appreciate the beauty and importance of our shared seas. Here's how you can Shine Together this May: Volunteer Spotlight: Every week, we'll highlight a dedicated volunteer, sharing their story and the incredible work they do for the ocean. Get inspired by their passion and consider joining our amazing team! Volunteer Incentive Program: Show your appreciation for our volunteers by participating in our exciting program. Nominate a Reef Check Australia volunteer for volunteer of the month, cheer them on (in the field or from home!) and support local businesses that support our volunteers, like PRANAFEST, and spread the word! Know a business who would like to support our volunteers? Get in Touch! Local Partner Shoutout: Let's amplify the voices of organizations who champion volunteer well-being and support ocean conservation efforts. Check out some of our supporters below. Remember, every action, every voice, is a ripple that contributes to a wave of positive change for our ocean. This May, let's Shine Together, celebrating the strength of our community, recognizing each other's worth, and ensuring a brighter future for our beloved seas. Join us, volunteer, participate, and most importantly, shine! Together, we can make a difference!   News from the field Stories and updates from our teams out & about.  South East Queensland Gold Coast Seaway, South-west wall  - Reef Health Survey This underwater adventure is brought to you by team RCA at the Southwest Wall of the Gold Coast Seaway. Established in 2007 and just South from the popular Pipeline, this site has provided valuable insights into the dynamic marine environment of the Gold Coast. Highlights of this dive for our team during their reef health survey included an abundance of purple nudibranchs, eel-tailed catfish, some tropical rock lobster and some large sweetlips! Plus, catching up with the Reef Check Australia team members spanning across SEQ and the GBR highlights the dedication of our volunteers. An increase in silt was recorded across the entire transect, a decrease in nutrient indicator algae, and increase in the number of tunicates. One drupella snail was spotted, three lobsters, and several pieces of debris, leading to the team conducting a clean up to remove over pieces of trash from underwater, and several handfuls of trash from the beach and park area as they got ready. A great opportunity to remember to pick up debris whenever safe to do so; even if it isn’t yours, and dispose of it correctly. A massive shoutout to our amazing team and a heartfelt thank you to the team at Aqua Adventures for supplying tanks. It requires all hands on deck to make events possible, so thankyou to everyone who helped plan and survey. Reef Check Acknowledge the people of the Yugambeh language region of the Gold Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project has received funding support from The City of Gold Coasts Catchment and Citizen Science Grants Program. Noosa, The Caves - Reef Health Survey After months of watching the weather, planning and replanning due to high seas, high winds and average conditions, the Reef Check Australia team finally managed to get up to Noosa to complete their final reef health monitoring for the region. The beautiful day provided a small refuge of sun between the rain that has kept the entire south east QLD coast green and humid over the past few months, so we were excited to check out how the reefs in Noosa had faired. The surface ocean temperature was 30 degrees Celsius when we jumped in this month; extremely warm for this time of year and this region. Around the world, the Earth’s oceans are having their warmest start to a year on record as El Niño and climate change combine to produce unrivalled January-February sea surface temperatures. Last year was the warmest year on record for Earth’s global oceans, with sea surface temperatures running at record high levels from mid-March until the end of the year. This unprecedented global ocean heat was caused in part by the warming effects of climate change and El Niño. What does this mean for local reefs? Our Noosa Caves site was set up in 2019 to gain a better understanding of reef health within the Noosa region as a part of our long-term monitoring plan in the region. This site sits at 12-13m deep, and consists of a very undulating, uneven reef structure, allowing plenty of habitat for animals and corals etc alike. Despite lowered visibility and very green conditions, the site itself was teaming with hard and soft coral, sponges and fish. Two lobsters and 15 Drupella snails were recorded, Several large Drupella scars were seen; with the majority affecting foliose hard corals. Eight unknown scars were recorded, with each replicant having several bleached corals, with individuals bleached from 20-100%. The population level bleaching was much lower (1-3%). Butterflyfish and one wobbegong were the only target fish recorded on the transect. Thank you to Blue Tortuga Adventures for getting us to site. These vital reef health surveys are not possible without our amazing volunteers, so thankyou for all that you do! Reef Check Acknowledge the Kabi Kabi people of the Sunshine Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place, and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. This project is supported by Noosa Council. Mud Island, Moreton Bay - Reef Health Survey Moreton Bay is a water body situated right next to Brisbane, one of Australia’s largest cities hosting a population of over 2 million people. Situated in the bay are various coral reefs, monitoring them over long periods of time allows us to understand how urbanisation affects marine ecosystems that are adjacent to large urban regions to measure just how humans impact the world underwater. On a sun-filled summers day, various Reef Check Australia team leaders and survey divers headed out into the bay to perform coral reef surveys. Reef Check Australia has been monitoring Southeast Queensland reefs since 2007, and Mud Island since 2017, as part of a partnership with Port of Brisbane to monitor the effects of activities in the Bay. Today, we surveyed site situated along Mud Island called Coral Galore. Although the weather was wonderful above water, large amounts of turbidity underwater make working conditions less than ideal. A large amount of silt and sargassum seaweed covered the site, however there was no shortage of life with the coral reefs still blossoming with invertebrates and other animals hiding in the substrates. Several Drupella snails and coral bleaching were recorded at the site, which are threats towards our marine ecosystems. During our dive underwater, although the region has seen lots of rain recently the team recorded a water temperature of 29⁰C, which is exceptionally high; the highest recorded on any Reef Check Australia survey in Southeast Qld to date. Unfortunately, this is a sign of a marine heatwave, and bays such as Moreton are extremely susceptible to these events due to small amounts of oceanographic currents pushing water around the region and shallow waters allowing the sun to heat bodies of water up rapidly. Marine heatwaves can bring about devastating effects for the ecosystems they affect, so monitoring sites like Mud Island over long periods of time helps us understand how these potentially catastrophic events affect biodiversity. We look forward to heading out again in a few months to continue monitoring any changes that might occur as a part of this long term monitoring program. Thank you to Go Dive Brisbane for getting us to our reef health monitoring site. We appreciate that many of the sites we visit are not regularly on the tourist circuit, although we believe they should be! Reef Check Acknowledge the Quandamooka people of Bangamba (Mud island), Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and future. This project is supported by the Port of Brisbane as a part of their environmental monitoring program. Envirotech Talk - Discussion on coral restoration and citizen science Our General Manager, Jodi Salmond, joined students from Envirotech on the Gold Coast this month to share her passion as a marine scientist working in the region. She shared updates on Reef Check Australia, reef health within the Gold Coast, and the simple ways that everyone can get involved in supporting reef health; above and below the surface. Reef Check Australia works hard to communicate what we do as citizen scientists to the wider community, so we thought it was the perfect opportunity to chat with the Envirotech students as they learn about reef monitoring techniques, reef restoration, and  about how best to communicate, engage and empower their peers to better understand, appreciate and protect our local marine resources. We run semi regular Reef Ambassador training courses, which is designed to train community outreach volunteers to actively inspire, motivate and support their communities through the potential power of the right blend of science, optimism and concrete action that can empower passionate community members to support reef resilience in their local area. Through this strategic, science-based and collaborative outreach network, we seek to build a network of passionate and informed community members, helping to translate our citizen science findings into meaningful action. Sound like something you might be interested in?. Make sure to head on over to https://www.reefcheckaustralia.org/reef_ambassadors to find out more, and to sign up for the next course! Reef Check Acknowledge the Yugambeh people of the Gold Coast, Traditional Custodians of the land and sea country on which these activities took place and we pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging. Reef Check Australia activities in this region have received funding support from The City of Gold Coast's Catchment and Citizen Science Grants Program.   Great Barrier Reef Grays Bay Bowen - Snorkel Clean Up This site was identified as a hot spot for fishing debris during our Reef Health Surveys. The persistent strong winds have kept visibility low, but a small team of enthusiastic volunteers jumped in 2 hours before low tide which gave enough water depth and visibility to clean up some of the debris on snorkel. We quickly set to work carefully removing the fishing line and associated hooks and sinkers, taking care not to damage the coral. There was a significant amount of line that had been in place for a very long time and coral had grown over it, so these pieces were left in place. We collected over 50m of monofilament line, over 50m of braid line, 5 plastic lures, 3 metal lures, hooks, sinkers, aluminium cans and a complete mask and snorkel (beyond saving unfortunately). This site will continue to be monitored and additional clean-ups on scuba may be necessary to remove further debris not accessible on snorkel. This clean up was conducted on the traditional lands and sea country of the Ngaro, Gia and Juru People of the Whitsundays. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians and their Elders past, present and emerging. This project is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government's Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Books and podcasts Have you read or listened to something lately that you would like to share? Let us know and we can feature it here Voice of the Sea by John Williamson A book for the young ocean conservationists. Apparently there is also a song of the same name also written by John Williamson so check it out. Current Coral Affairs Check out some of the latest news and research about our ocean Looks like an alien! New species of sea slug discovered in UK waters Read now in: BBC News Get with the Program Here's what we've got coming up in the next few weeks, keep checking the website for more updates.  Sat 11 May | Rowes Bay (Townsville) Sustainability Centre Open Day, 9am to 1pm More Info. Come say Hi to our team. Tue 14 May | Coast to Coral - Saving Sawfish with Nikki Biskis. Register on our website to get your login. Sun 2 June | Townsville Ecofiesta. For more info https://whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au/events/eco-fiesta-2024 Sun 2 June | Logan Eco Action Festival. For more info head to: https://www.logan.qld.gov.au/environment/leaf Sat 8 June | Marine Bioblitz Whitsundays - stay tuned for more details If you missed any of our Coast to Coral online events, remember you can always catch-up by taking a look at our YouTube Channel here     Thanks for reading! If you want to help our work to empower more people to protect Australian reefs, please consider making a monthly tax-deductible donation.    Make a Donation   Copyright © 2023 Reef Check Australia, All rights reserved.You have received this newsletter because you have given Reef Check Australia your email address. If you would prefer not to receive any further emails, please click the unsubscribe link in your email.Our mailing address is: Reef Check Australia PO Box 782, Mooloolaba, QLD, 4557Australia