Word on the Reef Wed, 20 May 2026 12:09:41 +1000 https://www.wordonthereef.com en-au © 2026 Word on the Reef yes Great Barrier Reef, Australia Support this Podcast 21d04756-6543-5668-9249-cf174703306e Tanya Murphy episodic false Diving into marine science adventures on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Tanya Murphy https://storage.buzzsprout.com/x9m2h5bequ33vjr0fnupjqqtbhko?.jpg Word on the Reef Tanya Murphy Brett Goodban S3 E12: Mud, Blood and Sea Turtles: Caitlin's Quest to Give Turtles a Future S3 E12: Mud, Blood and Sea Turtles: Caitlin's Quest to Give Turtles a Future In 2022, a mass stranding of more than 600 sick turtles devastated Hervey Bay in South East Queensland. As volunteers worked tirelessly to rescue them, scientists got to work on solving the puzzle: what caused this disaster?

Dr Caitlin Smith is one of the scientists racing to unravel the threats facing our sea turtles before it’s too late.

Her work has seen her fearlessly leaning out of helicopters to survey seagrass, slip-sliding across stinky mud bogs to rescue half-ton turtles, studying turtle blood samples, and putting baby turtles through fitness tests to understand how our actions are impacting them.

In this episode, she explains why these ancient animals are so magnetic, and what we need to do to save them.

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]]> In 2022, a mass stranding of more than 600 sick turtles devastated Hervey Bay in South East Queensland. As volunteers worked tirelessly to rescue them, scientists got to work on solving the puzzle: what caused this disaster?

Dr Caitlin Smith is one of the scientists racing to unravel the threats facing our sea turtles before it’s too late.

Her work has seen her fearlessly leaning out of helicopters to survey seagrass, slip-sliding across stinky mud bogs to rescue half-ton turtles, studying turtle blood samples, and putting baby turtles through fitness tests to understand how our actions are impacting them.

In this episode, she explains why these ancient animals are so magnetic, and what we need to do to save them.

More info:

 

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-19206513 Wed, 20 May 2026 10:00:00 +1000 3275 3 12 full false S3 E11: Befriending Giants: The Secret Lives of Manta Rays S3 E11: Befriending Giants: The Secret Lives of Manta Rays Professor Kathy Townsend knew she wanted to be a marine biologist from the age of five, and completed her very first dive in a frozen Canadian lake. But it was the moment a five-metre manta ray draped its tail over her shoulder like an affectionate cat that she knew she had truly found her calling.

Since then, Kathy has followed manta rays around the world, appeared in a documentary with Sir David Attenborough, and even been swept into a swirling manta-ray feeding vortex. She greets her favourite mantas with a wink, and some even come to her for toothbrush scratches.

But these intelligent and gentle giants are under threat. In this episode, Kathy shares the magic of manta rays, the mysteries scientists are still trying to solve, and why the race to understand and protect them has never been more urgent.

We just HAD to make this a bonus-length episode because Kathy has SO many incredible stories about mantas which are absolutely not-to-be-missed!

Thumbnail Image: Professor Townsend collecting a DNA sample with a toothbrush. Photo by Amelia Armstrong.

Submit manta sightings: Project Manta

Prof Townsend's book: A Field Guide to the Vertebrates of Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef.

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]]> Professor Kathy Townsend knew she wanted to be a marine biologist from the age of five, and completed her very first dive in a frozen Canadian lake. But it was the moment a five-metre manta ray draped its tail over her shoulder like an affectionate cat that she knew she had truly found her calling.

Since then, Kathy has followed manta rays around the world, appeared in a documentary with Sir David Attenborough, and even been swept into a swirling manta-ray feeding vortex. She greets her favourite mantas with a wink, and some even come to her for toothbrush scratches.

But these intelligent and gentle giants are under threat. In this episode, Kathy shares the magic of manta rays, the mysteries scientists are still trying to solve, and why the race to understand and protect them has never been more urgent.

We just HAD to make this a bonus-length episode because Kathy has SO many incredible stories about mantas which are absolutely not-to-be-missed!

Thumbnail Image: Professor Townsend collecting a DNA sample with a toothbrush. Photo by Amelia Armstrong.

Submit manta sightings: Project Manta

Prof Townsend's book: A Field Guide to the Vertebrates of Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-19151836 Sun, 10 May 2026 21:00:00 +1000 4944 3 11 full false S3 E10: Dugong Wars: The Fight to Save Mermaids with Professor Helene Marsh S3 E10: Dugong Wars: The Fight to Save Mermaids with Professor Helene Marsh When Professor Helene Marsh first began researching dugongs on the Great Barrier Reef, the only ones she encountered were dead - tangled in fishing nets.

Then, in the 1990s, Queensland became the centre of a fierce conservation battle known as the “Dugong Wars”. No torpedoes were fired, but the conflict between marine scientists, industry groups and governments was intense, as researchers like Professor Marsh fought to remove nets from critical dugong habitat.

Today, dugongs face even greater threats, from climate change and habitat loss to extreme weather and declining seagrass meadows. In this episode, Professor Marsh shares the remarkable story of the Dugong Wars, the science behind these elusive “mermaids of the sea”, and the urgent mission to ensure they survive into the future.

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]]> When Professor Helene Marsh first began researching dugongs on the Great Barrier Reef, the only ones she encountered were dead - tangled in fishing nets.

Then, in the 1990s, Queensland became the centre of a fierce conservation battle known as the “Dugong Wars”. No torpedoes were fired, but the conflict between marine scientists, industry groups and governments was intense, as researchers like Professor Marsh fought to remove nets from critical dugong habitat.

Today, dugongs face even greater threats, from climate change and habitat loss to extreme weather and declining seagrass meadows. In this episode, Professor Marsh shares the remarkable story of the Dugong Wars, the science behind these elusive “mermaids of the sea”, and the urgent mission to ensure they survive into the future.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-19145075 Fri, 08 May 2026 19:00:00 +1000 2896 3 10 full false S3 E9: Meet Gary, the King of Nudibranchs (AKA the Ocean’s Craziest Sea Slugs) S3 E9: Meet Gary, the King of Nudibranchs (AKA the Ocean’s Craziest Sea Slugs) He's broken several world records: largest group skydive, longest scuba dive on a single tank—and the most species of nudibranchs ever found on a single dive (71).

He's spent 23 years chasing these tiny creatures, building a global following of more than 60,000 people who are equally obsessed.

But what even is a nudibranch—and why are thousands of people going nuts over them?

Well, they dress like drag queens, some of them can fire miniature deadly spears out of their flubbery bits, and some can even walk on water like Jesus — but upside down, and with only one foot.

In this fun and outlandish interview with the world's biggest nudie fanatic, we get up close and personal with these outrageously beautiful, neon-coloured ocean jewels found in every corner of our seas.

Listeners be warned: nudibranchs can be surprisingly addictive.

(I mean, JUST LOOK at the nudibranch in the thumbnail image. Does he look like he's the slightest bit bothered by ANYTHING or ANYONE? Go off, you fabulous creature!)

More info:

Cyclone Maila News Audio: Australian Broadcasting Association.

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]]> He's broken several world records: largest group skydive, longest scuba dive on a single tank—and the most species of nudibranchs ever found on a single dive (71).

He's spent 23 years chasing these tiny creatures, building a global following of more than 60,000 people who are equally obsessed.

But what even is a nudibranch—and why are thousands of people going nuts over them?

Well, they dress like drag queens, some of them can fire miniature deadly spears out of their flubbery bits, and some can even walk on water like Jesus — but upside down, and with only one foot.

In this fun and outlandish interview with the world's biggest nudie fanatic, we get up close and personal with these outrageously beautiful, neon-coloured ocean jewels found in every corner of our seas.

Listeners be warned: nudibranchs can be surprisingly addictive.

(I mean, JUST LOOK at the nudibranch in the thumbnail image. Does he look like he's the slightest bit bothered by ANYTHING or ANYONE? Go off, you fabulous creature!)

More info:

Cyclone Maila News Audio: Australian Broadcasting Association.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-19038120 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 16:00:00 +1000 2862 3 9 full false S3 E8: UNESCO Sounds Alarm on the Great Barrier Reef + Cyclone Narelle’s Fallout S3 E8: UNESCO Sounds Alarm on the Great Barrier Reef + Cyclone Narelle’s Fallout The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is concerned about the Great Barrier Reef - warning Australia to do more to protect it or risk an “In Danger” listing. So how serious is this threat, and are governments doing enough to respond?

This week we're joined by marine ecologist Dr Lissa Schindler from the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack what’s behind UNESCO’s warnings - and what we need to do about it.

Plus, we take a closer look at a summer of extremes: from coral bleaching to Cyclone Narelle’s impacts on marine life and coastal communities from the Great Barrier Reef to Ningaloo Reef.

Thumbnail Image: Clownfish in bleached anemone, 28 March 2026, Tanya Murphy.

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]]> The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is concerned about the Great Barrier Reef - warning Australia to do more to protect it or risk an “In Danger” listing. So how serious is this threat, and are governments doing enough to respond?

This week we're joined by marine ecologist Dr Lissa Schindler from the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack what’s behind UNESCO’s warnings - and what we need to do about it.

Plus, we take a closer look at a summer of extremes: from coral bleaching to Cyclone Narelle’s impacts on marine life and coastal communities from the Great Barrier Reef to Ningaloo Reef.

Thumbnail Image: Clownfish in bleached anemone, 28 March 2026, Tanya Murphy.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18993978 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +1000 2947 3 8 full false S3 E7: The Aeroplane that Flies Underwater: A Game Changer for Marine Science? S3 E7: The Aeroplane that Flies Underwater: A Game Changer for Marine Science? Critics said it would never work. But after 30 years of surveying reefs the hard way - diving with a slate and pencil - marine ecologist Brett Kettle knew there had to be a better way. So he built one.
In this episode of Word on the Reef, Tanya Murphy sits down with Brett and the team behind Flying Fish Technologies to reveal the Vertigo 3 Glider—an underwater drone that could revolutionise how we monitor and protect the ocean.

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]]> Critics said it would never work. But after 30 years of surveying reefs the hard way - diving with a slate and pencil - marine ecologist Brett Kettle knew there had to be a better way. So he built one.
In this episode of Word on the Reef, Tanya Murphy sits down with Brett and the team behind Flying Fish Technologies to reveal the Vertigo 3 Glider—an underwater drone that could revolutionise how we monitor and protect the ocean.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18949299 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +1000 2869 3 7 full false S3 E6: Starfish vs. The Great Barrier Reef: Can We Stop Them? S3 E6: Starfish vs. The Great Barrier Reef: Can We Stop Them? What has eyes on the tips of its 20 arms, venomous spines, is almost impossible to kill — and is munching the world’s largest reef?
Meet the crown-of-thorns starfish.
Professor Morgan Pratchett has spent years studying this formidable predator. He’s been on the pointy end of one more than once — and lived to tell the tale.
In this episode, he reveals new research that could help tackle this army of millions.

To listen to the EXTENDED version of this interview, subscribe here!

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]]> What has eyes on the tips of its 20 arms, venomous spines, is almost impossible to kill — and is munching the world’s largest reef?
Meet the crown-of-thorns starfish.
Professor Morgan Pratchett has spent years studying this formidable predator. He’s been on the pointy end of one more than once — and lived to tell the tale.
In this episode, he reveals new research that could help tackle this army of millions.

To listen to the EXTENDED version of this interview, subscribe here!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18886215 Sun, 22 Mar 2026 21:00:00 +1000 2853 3 6 full false S3 E5: Eco-Grief: Why Loving Nature Can Hurt - and What To Do About It S3 E5: Eco-Grief: Why Loving Nature Can Hurt - and What To Do About It As climate change, coral bleaching and biodiversity loss dominate the news, many people are experiencing something psychologists now call eco-grief or climate anxiety — the emotional response to witnessing environmental change.

To unpack the connection between mental health, climate change and our relationship with nature - this week we're joined by Dr Chloe Watfern, an artist and postdoctoral psychology researcher with the University of New South Wales and the Black Dog Institute, who lives on Magnetic Island on the Great Barrier Reef.

We'll cover why environmental grief and climate anxiety are normal human responses, how creativity can help people process ecological loss, how parents can talk to children about climate change without overwhelming them, and much more.

It’s an honest, thoughtful and ultimately hopeful conversation about loving the places that matter to us — even when they’re under threat.

To hear the extended version of this episode, subscribe on Patreon: www.patreon.com/wordonthereefpodcast

MORE INFO:

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]]> As climate change, coral bleaching and biodiversity loss dominate the news, many people are experiencing something psychologists now call eco-grief or climate anxiety — the emotional response to witnessing environmental change.

To unpack the connection between mental health, climate change and our relationship with nature - this week we're joined by Dr Chloe Watfern, an artist and postdoctoral psychology researcher with the University of New South Wales and the Black Dog Institute, who lives on Magnetic Island on the Great Barrier Reef.

We'll cover why environmental grief and climate anxiety are normal human responses, how creativity can help people process ecological loss, how parents can talk to children about climate change without overwhelming them, and much more.

It’s an honest, thoughtful and ultimately hopeful conversation about loving the places that matter to us — even when they’re under threat.

To hear the extended version of this episode, subscribe on Patreon: www.patreon.com/wordonthereefpodcast

MORE INFO:

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18847956 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +1000 2632 3 5 full false S3 E4: Reef Time Capsules: What Coral Cores Reveal About the Reef’s Past S3 E4: Reef Time Capsules: What Coral Cores Reveal About the Reef’s Past Did you know coral skeletons contain a record of every flood event in Queensland since 1648?

We often hear that climate and water pollution conditions on the Great Barrier Reef have changed dramatically since pre-industrial times. But how do we actually know that? After all, weather records only stretch back just over a century, and systematic water quality monitoring only began in the 1980s.

The answer is written in the corals themselves. By extracting a core sample — much like studying tree rings — scientists can read the chemical signatures locked inside the growth layers of coral skeletons, revealing what ocean conditions were like hundreds of years ago.

So what stories are those coral cores telling us? To find out, we’re joined today by Dr Stephen Lewis, Senior Principal Research Officer specialising in water quality at James Cook University in Townsville.


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]]> Did you know coral skeletons contain a record of every flood event in Queensland since 1648?

We often hear that climate and water pollution conditions on the Great Barrier Reef have changed dramatically since pre-industrial times. But how do we actually know that? After all, weather records only stretch back just over a century, and systematic water quality monitoring only began in the 1980s.

The answer is written in the corals themselves. By extracting a core sample — much like studying tree rings — scientists can read the chemical signatures locked inside the growth layers of coral skeletons, revealing what ocean conditions were like hundreds of years ago.

So what stories are those coral cores telling us? To find out, we’re joined today by Dr Stephen Lewis, Senior Principal Research Officer specialising in water quality at James Cook University in Townsville.


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18805042 Sat, 07 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +1000 2616 3 4 full false S3 E3: Coral 2.0: Can Technology Save the Great Barrier Reef? S3 E3: Coral 2.0: Can Technology Save the Great Barrier Reef? For thousands of years, the Great Barrier Reef has had the power to regenerate itself — so until 2017, coral transplantation was illegal. The rule was simple: let nature recover itself. Then mass bleaching events driven by global warming changed everything.

This summer, scientists released tens of thousands of baby corals - attaching them to ceramic stars and dropping them from boats in a bid to boost survival. The ambitious goal of this government-funded project is to plant millions of these devices using robots.

But can engineered human intervention work at the scale of an ecosystem the size of Japan? Is restoration a lifeline - or a distraction from cutting climate emissions? And what’s riskier: playing God with nature, or doing nothing?

This week, we're joined by Dr Cedric Robillot, Executive Director of the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program, to explore what the Reef’s future looks like.

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]]> For thousands of years, the Great Barrier Reef has had the power to regenerate itself — so until 2017, coral transplantation was illegal. The rule was simple: let nature recover itself. Then mass bleaching events driven by global warming changed everything.

This summer, scientists released tens of thousands of baby corals - attaching them to ceramic stars and dropping them from boats in a bid to boost survival. The ambitious goal of this government-funded project is to plant millions of these devices using robots.

But can engineered human intervention work at the scale of an ecosystem the size of Japan? Is restoration a lifeline - or a distraction from cutting climate emissions? And what’s riskier: playing God with nature, or doing nothing?

This week, we're joined by Dr Cedric Robillot, Executive Director of the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program, to explore what the Reef’s future looks like.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18767806 Sun, 01 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +1000 3668 3 3 full false S3 E2: Dissolving Coral: Ocean Acidification and the Future of Coral Reefs S3 E2: Dissolving Coral: Ocean Acidification and the Future of Coral Reefs Our oceans are 40% more acidic than pre-industrial times, making it harder for corals, molluscs, crustaceans and plankton to build their calcium carbonate skeletons. It's a crucial planetary boundary we've crossed — threatening reefs, fisheries, tourism, food security, and coastal communities. And almost no one is talking about it.

So what’s driving it? What does it mean for the Great Barrier Reef? And what can we do?

This week on Word on the Reef, we’re joined by Dr Katharina Fabricius from the Australian Institute of Marine Science — a global leader in coral reef ecology and ocean acidification research — to unpack the science and the solutions.

Read Dr Fabricius's research: Volcanic bubbles help foretell the fate of coral in more acidic seas

Thumbnail image: CO2 bubbles emerging from volcanic seeps in Papua New Guinea. Dr Katharina Fabricius

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]]> Our oceans are 40% more acidic than pre-industrial times, making it harder for corals, molluscs, crustaceans and plankton to build their calcium carbonate skeletons. It's a crucial planetary boundary we've crossed — threatening reefs, fisheries, tourism, food security, and coastal communities. And almost no one is talking about it.

So what’s driving it? What does it mean for the Great Barrier Reef? And what can we do?

This week on Word on the Reef, we’re joined by Dr Katharina Fabricius from the Australian Institute of Marine Science — a global leader in coral reef ecology and ocean acidification research — to unpack the science and the solutions.

Read Dr Fabricius's research: Volcanic bubbles help foretell the fate of coral in more acidic seas

Thumbnail image: CO2 bubbles emerging from volcanic seeps in Papua New Guinea. Dr Katharina Fabricius

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18729473 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +1000 2824 3 2 full false S3 E1: Flantastic Discovery: Giant Dessert-Shaped Seamount Teems with Rare Marine Life S3 E1: Flantastic Discovery: Giant Dessert-Shaped Seamount Teems with Rare Marine Life CSIRO scientists have discovered a massive underwater mountain, shaped like a half-eaten flan, rising 3,000 metres from the seafloor off the coast of North Queensland. That's taller than Australia’s highest mainland peak, Mount Kosciuszko. And it’s teeming with life.

To guide us on a deep dive into this 40-million-year-old extinct volcano and its flantastic inhabitants, our guest on Word on the Reef this week is Marine Geophysicist Dr Chris Yuleridge.

Dr Yuleridge also takes us '20 thousands leagues under the sea' to explore lost shipwrecks, follow submerged Aboriginal song lines, meet the faceless cusk eel, and dive inside the recently erupted Hunga Tonga volcano.

If you're a big flan of science, this episode is for you. But be warned - listening may cause cravings for lava pudding, creme brulee and other volcano-shaped desserts.

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]]> CSIRO scientists have discovered a massive underwater mountain, shaped like a half-eaten flan, rising 3,000 metres from the seafloor off the coast of North Queensland. That's taller than Australia’s highest mainland peak, Mount Kosciuszko. And it’s teeming with life.

To guide us on a deep dive into this 40-million-year-old extinct volcano and its flantastic inhabitants, our guest on Word on the Reef this week is Marine Geophysicist Dr Chris Yuleridge.

Dr Yuleridge also takes us '20 thousands leagues under the sea' to explore lost shipwrecks, follow submerged Aboriginal song lines, meet the faceless cusk eel, and dive inside the recently erupted Hunga Tonga volcano.

If you're a big flan of science, this episode is for you. But be warned - listening may cause cravings for lava pudding, creme brulee and other volcano-shaped desserts.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18685231 Sun, 15 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +1000 2694 3 1 full false S2 E40: Fact or Fiction: Media Misinformation and the Health of the Great Barrier Reef S2 E40: Fact or Fiction: Media Misinformation and the Health of the Great Barrier Reef Have you ever felt confused by conflicting media reports about the health of the Great Barrier Reef? If so, you're not alone. New research shows news coverage has often failed to clearly communicate the risks climate change poses to the reef, sometimes fuelling misinformation and climate denial.

So what's really happening on the Great Barrier Reef? To help unpack this, our guest today is Dr. Gabi Mocatta, Senior Research Fellow in Climate Science Communication at the University of Tasmania.

PLUS it's our last show of the year and we're going out with a bang! Hosts Tanya and Brett celebrate their 40th and final episode of the year and look back at the highlights of 2025.

SOURCES:

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) 2022 Media Release as discussed in the episode: https://www.aims.gov.au/information-centre/news-and-stories/highest-coral-cover-central-northern-reef-36-years

Andreotta, M., Mocatta, G., Lubicz-Zaorski, C. et al. Steering Great Barrier Reef climate science narratives through the mediasphere in a time of misinformation. npj Clim. Action 4, 99 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44168-025-00235-4

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]]> Have you ever felt confused by conflicting media reports about the health of the Great Barrier Reef? If so, you're not alone. New research shows news coverage has often failed to clearly communicate the risks climate change poses to the reef, sometimes fuelling misinformation and climate denial.

So what's really happening on the Great Barrier Reef? To help unpack this, our guest today is Dr. Gabi Mocatta, Senior Research Fellow in Climate Science Communication at the University of Tasmania.

PLUS it's our last show of the year and we're going out with a bang! Hosts Tanya and Brett celebrate their 40th and final episode of the year and look back at the highlights of 2025.

SOURCES:

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) 2022 Media Release as discussed in the episode: https://www.aims.gov.au/information-centre/news-and-stories/highest-coral-cover-central-northern-reef-36-years

Andreotta, M., Mocatta, G., Lubicz-Zaorski, C. et al. Steering Great Barrier Reef climate science narratives through the mediasphere in a time of misinformation. npj Clim. Action 4, 99 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44168-025-00235-4

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18392735 Sun, 21 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +1000 2717 2 40 full false S2 E39: Saving Sea Lions & Albatrosses PLUS Good News about Australia's Nature Laws! S2 E39: Saving Sea Lions & Albatrosses PLUS Good News about Australia's Nature Laws! What do the world's largest flying bird, with a wingspan of up to 3.5 metres, and the Australian Sea Lion have in common? Both are endangered due to their high risk of entanglement in fishing nets!

Today's guest, Zoologist Alexia Wellbelove gives us a birds-eye view on how changes to fishing practices can help bring Albatrosses and Sea Lions back from the brink. We'll also unpack recent changes to Australia's nature laws which scientists hope will help slow the alarming rate of extinctions in Australia.

AMCS's Threatened Species Campaign:  https://www.marineconservation.org.au/threatened-species/

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]]> What do the world's largest flying bird, with a wingspan of up to 3.5 metres, and the Australian Sea Lion have in common? Both are endangered due to their high risk of entanglement in fishing nets!

Today's guest, Zoologist Alexia Wellbelove gives us a birds-eye view on how changes to fishing practices can help bring Albatrosses and Sea Lions back from the brink. We'll also unpack recent changes to Australia's nature laws which scientists hope will help slow the alarming rate of extinctions in Australia.

AMCS's Threatened Species Campaign:  https://www.marineconservation.org.au/threatened-species/

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18349213 Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +1000 2474 2 39 full false S2 E38: Before the Flood: How Fossils Built the Great Barrier Reef (and the Pyramids!) S2 E38: Before the Flood: How Fossils Built the Great Barrier Reef (and the Pyramids!) What do the Egyptian Pyramids, the Greek Parthenon, the Notre Dame Cathedral and Melbourne's Parliament House all have in common? They are all built out of fossilised reefs, aka limestone!

Today we’re taking a journey through deep lime - I mean time - to answer some of those burning questions like: How old is the Great Barrier Reef? What ancient forces built this coral colossus? Why are there fossilised reefs hundreds of metres above sea level and kilometres inland? And perhaps most importantly... What do these lessons from the ancient karst - I mean past - mean for our future?

To help us dig up the answers, we’re joined by Russell Kelley - a coral geologist, biologist, and author of the acclaimed Be Your Own Guide coral identification book series - who knows corals both living and extinct like the back of his hand.

Check out Russell's Books at www.BYOGUIDES.com

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]]> What do the Egyptian Pyramids, the Greek Parthenon, the Notre Dame Cathedral and Melbourne's Parliament House all have in common? They are all built out of fossilised reefs, aka limestone!

Today we’re taking a journey through deep lime - I mean time - to answer some of those burning questions like: How old is the Great Barrier Reef? What ancient forces built this coral colossus? Why are there fossilised reefs hundreds of metres above sea level and kilometres inland? And perhaps most importantly... What do these lessons from the ancient karst - I mean past - mean for our future?

To help us dig up the answers, we’re joined by Russell Kelley - a coral geologist, biologist, and author of the acclaimed Be Your Own Guide coral identification book series - who knows corals both living and extinct like the back of his hand.

Check out Russell's Books at www.BYOGUIDES.com

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18316132 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +1000 3369 2 38 full false S2 E37: Pig of a Problem: Saving Baby Sea Turtles from Porky Predators on the Great Barrier Reef S2 E37: Pig of a Problem: Saving Baby Sea Turtles from Porky Predators on the Great Barrier Reef Pigs can't fly, nor can they dive in the ocean. But they are posing a serious threat to endangered sea turtles by pigging out on turtle eggs and hatchlings in Cape York. This is not the good kind of bacon and eggs combo. It's Ham-ageddon for our nesting sea turtles!

Cape York Natural Resource Management representatives Dr Manuela Fischer and Scott Morrison (no relation to the former Australian PM) are working on a solution! Today they join us in the studio to explain how we can deal with this a-pork-alypse and give our sea turtles a chance for the future.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Kf1aDsr0p9A

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]]> Pigs can't fly, nor can they dive in the ocean. But they are posing a serious threat to endangered sea turtles by pigging out on turtle eggs and hatchlings in Cape York. This is not the good kind of bacon and eggs combo. It's Ham-ageddon for our nesting sea turtles!

Cape York Natural Resource Management representatives Dr Manuela Fischer and Scott Morrison (no relation to the former Australian PM) are working on a solution! Today they join us in the studio to explain how we can deal with this a-pork-alypse and give our sea turtles a chance for the future.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Kf1aDsr0p9A

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18308527 Sat, 06 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +1000 2429 2 37 full false S2 E36: Disappearing Islands: The Race to Save Turtle Eggs from Rising Seas S2 E36: Disappearing Islands: The Race to Save Turtle Eggs from Rising Seas As the planet warms, more than 3000 sea turtle eggs have been evacuated from low-lying Raine Island on the Great Barrier Reef to save them from rising sea levels.

It's an emergency intervention never attempted before on the Great Barrier Reef. But can the eggs survive the relocation? And what does this egg-sistential crisis mean for the future of our sea turtles and other island-dwelling animals? Dr Mark Read from the Marine Park Authority explains all in this eye-opening episode.

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]]> As the planet warms, more than 3000 sea turtle eggs have been evacuated from low-lying Raine Island on the Great Barrier Reef to save them from rising sea levels.

It's an emergency intervention never attempted before on the Great Barrier Reef. But can the eggs survive the relocation? And what does this egg-sistential crisis mean for the future of our sea turtles and other island-dwelling animals? Dr Mark Read from the Marine Park Authority explains all in this eye-opening episode.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18272378 Sun, 30 Nov 2025 19:00:00 +1000 2651 2 36 full false S2 E35: Muddying the Waters: Deforestation and the Water Pollution Crisis on the Great Barrier Reef S2 E35: Muddying the Waters: Deforestation and the Water Pollution Crisis on the Great Barrier Reef Did you know Australia has one of the highest deforestation rates in the developed world? About 20% of Queensland's vegetation has been bulldozed since colonisation -- one million hectares in the last three years alone -- mainly for cattle farming. What impact is this having on the Great Barrier Reef, and what can we do to fix it? To find out, this week we're chatting with Dr Maximilian Hirschfeld, Water Quality Campaign Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society.

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]]> Did you know Australia has one of the highest deforestation rates in the developed world? About 20% of Queensland's vegetation has been bulldozed since colonisation -- one million hectares in the last three years alone -- mainly for cattle farming. What impact is this having on the Great Barrier Reef, and what can we do to fix it? To find out, this week we're chatting with Dr Maximilian Hirschfeld, Water Quality Campaign Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18234397 Sat, 22 Nov 2025 15:00:00 +1000 2537 2 35 full false S2 E34: Coral Spawning Research and Protecting Mangroves on the Great Barrier Reef S2 E34: Coral Spawning Research and Protecting Mangroves on the Great Barrier Reef Spring has sprung and it’s baby-making season on the Great Barrier Reef! In this episode we talk coral spawning with marine scientist Dr Katie Chartrand, plus, we dive into the world of mangrove forests with CAFNEC's Shannon Bredeson.

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]]> Spring has sprung and it’s baby-making season on the Great Barrier Reef! In this episode we talk coral spawning with marine scientist Dr Katie Chartrand, plus, we dive into the world of mangrove forests with CAFNEC's Shannon Bredeson.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-18174152 Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +1000 2681 2 34 full false S2 E33: Top 50 Dive Sites of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef: Part II S2 E33: Top 50 Dive Sites of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef: Part II Marine biologist and scuba legend Steve Sinclair is back again this week to finish revealing the Top 50 Dive Sites in Australia. Steve has spent over five decades exploring every reef, wreck and cave from Tasmania to the Top End — and now he’s sharing his secret spots with us!

From world-famous coral gardens on the Great Barrier Reef to secret, world-class dive spots you’ve never heard of, Steve shares insider stories and tips from a lifetime beneath the waves.

Plus — find out how you could win free dive trips by joining Steve’s Top 50 challenge and ticking off dives from your bucket list!

Image: Steve diving at the world-famous Cod Hole in October 2025.

Join the challenge: 50greatdives.com

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]]> Marine biologist and scuba legend Steve Sinclair is back again this week to finish revealing the Top 50 Dive Sites in Australia. Steve has spent over five decades exploring every reef, wreck and cave from Tasmania to the Top End — and now he’s sharing his secret spots with us!

From world-famous coral gardens on the Great Barrier Reef to secret, world-class dive spots you’ve never heard of, Steve shares insider stories and tips from a lifetime beneath the waves.

Plus — find out how you could win free dive trips by joining Steve’s Top 50 challenge and ticking off dives from your bucket list!

Image: Steve diving at the world-famous Cod Hole in October 2025.

Join the challenge: 50greatdives.com

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17988032 Fri, 24 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +1000 2448 2 33 full false S2 E32: Top 50 Dive Sites of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef S2 E32: Top 50 Dive Sites of Australia and the Great Barrier Reef Think you know Australia’s best dive sites? Think again! Marine biologist and scuba legend Steve Sinclair has spent over five decades exploring every reef, wreck and cave from Tasmania to the Top End — and now he’s revealing the Top 50 Dive Sites in Australia.

From world-famous coral gardens on the Great Barrier Reef to secret, world-class dive spots you’ve never heard of, Steve shares insider stories and tips from a lifetime beneath the waves.

Plus — find out how you could win free dive trips by joining Steve’s Top 50 challenge and ticking off dives from your bucket list!

Join the challenge: 50greatdives.com

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]]> Think you know Australia’s best dive sites? Think again! Marine biologist and scuba legend Steve Sinclair has spent over five decades exploring every reef, wreck and cave from Tasmania to the Top End — and now he’s revealing the Top 50 Dive Sites in Australia.

From world-famous coral gardens on the Great Barrier Reef to secret, world-class dive spots you’ve never heard of, Steve shares insider stories and tips from a lifetime beneath the waves.

Plus — find out how you could win free dive trips by joining Steve’s Top 50 challenge and ticking off dives from your bucket list!

Join the challenge: 50greatdives.com

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17987932 Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +1000 2671 2 32 full false S2 E31: Art Meets Ocean: How Creativity, Science & Community Are Protecting the Great Barrier Reef S2 E31: Art Meets Ocean: How Creativity, Science & Community Are Protecting the Great Barrier Reef What do underwater art museums, bomb tests, and citizen science have in common? They're all part of the story of the Great Barrier Reef’s past, present—and possible future.

Our guest this week is Dr. Adam Smith—freediver, marine biologist, and founder of Reef Ecologic, a Townsville-based social enterprise leading innovative reef conservation through research, education, and community action.

In this episode, we dive into how art, science, and storytelling are being used in powerful ways to protect one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems. You'll discover how public art installations beneath the sea are connecting people to the reef, how citizen science is turning everyday adventurers into ocean guardians, and what we can learn from extreme events like ship groundings and out-of-control seaweed outbreaks.

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]]> What do underwater art museums, bomb tests, and citizen science have in common? They're all part of the story of the Great Barrier Reef’s past, present—and possible future.

Our guest this week is Dr. Adam Smith—freediver, marine biologist, and founder of Reef Ecologic, a Townsville-based social enterprise leading innovative reef conservation through research, education, and community action.

In this episode, we dive into how art, science, and storytelling are being used in powerful ways to protect one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems. You'll discover how public art installations beneath the sea are connecting people to the reef, how citizen science is turning everyday adventurers into ocean guardians, and what we can learn from extreme events like ship groundings and out-of-control seaweed outbreaks.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17987797 Fri, 10 Oct 2025 18:00:00 +1000 2831 2 31 full false S2 E30: Seeing Green: Divers Investigate South Australia's Algal Bloom Disaster S2 E30: Seeing Green: Divers Investigate South Australia's Algal Bloom Disaster Today we're traveling back to South Australia for an update on the devastating toxic algal bloom that's been unfolding there over the last seven months, and what it it's been like for the divers who know and love these waters.

Marine Biologist and Divemaster Sarah Franke from Divers for Climate has just returned from a research trip to learn about how the disaster is impacting the South Australian community. She'll also take us inside the Senate Inquiry into the disaster, and let us know which of SA's dive sites are still safe to visit.

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]]> Today we're traveling back to South Australia for an update on the devastating toxic algal bloom that's been unfolding there over the last seven months, and what it it's been like for the divers who know and love these waters.

Marine Biologist and Divemaster Sarah Franke from Divers for Climate has just returned from a research trip to learn about how the disaster is impacting the South Australian community. She'll also take us inside the Senate Inquiry into the disaster, and let us know which of SA's dive sites are still safe to visit.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17949864 Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2538 2 30 full false S2 E29: Caring for Yirrganydji Sea Country on the Great Barrier Reef with Gavin Singleton S2 E29: Caring for Yirrganydji Sea Country on the Great Barrier Reef with Gavin Singleton First Nations people have been caring for land and sea along the Great Barrier Reef Coast for thousands of years. In this powerful interview, Traditional Owner Gavin Singleton explains the enduring connection First Nations people have with the Reef, what they're doing to help protect it, and how we can all foster a stronger connection with each other and the Reef.

The didgeridoo recording at the end of this episode is from Gavin's 2018 TEDx Talk at JCU.

More information:

💸 WIN $100! Fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey before 30 September 2025 to go in the draw. ENTER HERE.

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]]> First Nations people have been caring for land and sea along the Great Barrier Reef Coast for thousands of years. In this powerful interview, Traditional Owner Gavin Singleton explains the enduring connection First Nations people have with the Reef, what they're doing to help protect it, and how we can all foster a stronger connection with each other and the Reef.

The didgeridoo recording at the end of this episode is from Gavin's 2018 TEDx Talk at JCU.

More information:

💸 WIN $100! Fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey before 30 September 2025 to go in the draw. ENTER HERE.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17916775 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 14:00:00 +1000 2299 2 29 full false S2 E28: Corals' Last Stand: The Fight to Save Scott Reef S2 E28: Corals' Last Stand: The Fight to Save Scott Reef Scott Reef, Australia’s largest remote offshore reef, is a breathtaking sanctuary for corals, fish, rare sea snakes, nesting turtles, and pygmy blue whales. But this natural wonder is under threat from a mega gas drilling and carbon dumping proposal. Fossil fuel campaigner Louise Morris from the Australian Marine Conservation Society joins us to explain what’s at stake and how we can fight back.

Plus: we unpack Australia’s new 2035 climate target with AMCS Reef Campaigner Lissa Schindler — and why experts say it’s not enough to protect our oceans.

Thumbnail Image Credit: Nush Freedman Photography

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]]> Scott Reef, Australia’s largest remote offshore reef, is a breathtaking sanctuary for corals, fish, rare sea snakes, nesting turtles, and pygmy blue whales. But this natural wonder is under threat from a mega gas drilling and carbon dumping proposal. Fossil fuel campaigner Louise Morris from the Australian Marine Conservation Society joins us to explain what’s at stake and how we can fight back.

Plus: we unpack Australia’s new 2035 climate target with AMCS Reef Campaigner Lissa Schindler — and why experts say it’s not enough to protect our oceans.

Thumbnail Image Credit: Nush Freedman Photography

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17877861 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +1000 2559 2 28 full false S2 E27: Stronger Storms, Stronger Solutions: Saving Coral After Cyclones S2 E27: Stronger Storms, Stronger Solutions: Saving Coral After Cyclones Cyclones are part of life in the tropics, but climate change is making them stronger and more destructive. On the Great Barrier Reef, their force can pulverise thriving coral gardens into unstable rubble fields where baby corals struggle to grow. But there’s hope! In this week’s episode, we dive into an innovative solution that’s helping damaged reefs bounce back — and discover how you can play a role in bringing them back to life again!

This week's guest: Freda Nicholson, marine biologist and Program Manager for Mars Sustainable Solutions.

Shout-out to our latest Patreon supporter, Dr Sally Gregory --  check out her underwater cleanup project at Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast!

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]]> Cyclones are part of life in the tropics, but climate change is making them stronger and more destructive. On the Great Barrier Reef, their force can pulverise thriving coral gardens into unstable rubble fields where baby corals struggle to grow. But there’s hope! In this week’s episode, we dive into an innovative solution that’s helping damaged reefs bounce back — and discover how you can play a role in bringing them back to life again!

This week's guest: Freda Nicholson, marine biologist and Program Manager for Mars Sustainable Solutions.

Shout-out to our latest Patreon supporter, Dr Sally Gregory --  check out her underwater cleanup project at Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17798500 Sat, 06 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2477 2 27 full false S2 E26: Restoring Seagrass on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Tim Smith S2 E26: Restoring Seagrass on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Tim Smith Seagrass meadows are the unsung heroes of the Great Barrier Reef – nurseries for fish, food for turtles and dugongs, and a frontline defence against climate change. But after a massive die-off, Dr Tim Smith and the team at JCU TropWATER faced a huge challenge: how do you restore these fragile ecosystems while dealing with crocodiles, stingers, and waist-deep mud?

The answer: helicopters, hovercraft, dugong poo, 2,000 baby seagrass plants – and an army of everyday volunteers.

🎧 In this episode, dive into a world-first tropical seagrass restoration project and discover how you can be part of the solution.

👉 Sign up to volunteer: https://ozfish.org.au/events

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]]> Seagrass meadows are the unsung heroes of the Great Barrier Reef – nurseries for fish, food for turtles and dugongs, and a frontline defence against climate change. But after a massive die-off, Dr Tim Smith and the team at JCU TropWATER faced a huge challenge: how do you restore these fragile ecosystems while dealing with crocodiles, stingers, and waist-deep mud?

The answer: helicopters, hovercraft, dugong poo, 2,000 baby seagrass plants – and an army of everyday volunteers.

🎧 In this episode, dive into a world-first tropical seagrass restoration project and discover how you can be part of the solution.

👉 Sign up to volunteer: https://ozfish.org.au/events

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17761520 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +1000 2376 2 26 full false S2 E25: Just Say Yes: Why You Should Volunteer with Reef Check on the Great Barrier Reef S2 E25: Just Say Yes: Why You Should Volunteer with Reef Check on the Great Barrier Reef Ever dreamed of exploring the Great Barrier Reef for free—while making a real difference? With Reef Check Australia, volunteers can join survey dives and help clean up marine debris, all while experiencing the Reef up close. But what does it take to become a qualified reef surveyor? In this episode, Reef Check Australia’s General Manager, Jodi Salmond, shares how you can get involved and play a hands-on role in protecting this natural wonder.

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]]> Ever dreamed of exploring the Great Barrier Reef for free—while making a real difference? With Reef Check Australia, volunteers can join survey dives and help clean up marine debris, all while experiencing the Reef up close. But what does it take to become a qualified reef surveyor? In this episode, Reef Check Australia’s General Manager, Jodi Salmond, shares how you can get involved and play a hands-on role in protecting this natural wonder.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17728160 Mon, 25 Aug 2025 21:00:00 +1000 2589 2 25 full false S2 E24: Not Just a Pretty Shell: The Beautiful and Terrifying Molluscs of the Great Barrier Reef S2 E24: Not Just a Pretty Shell: The Beautiful and Terrifying Molluscs of the Great Barrier Reef What has no arms, no legs, and no brain, but can flash like a disco light, help control pests and kill you in minutes? Queensland Museum's mollusc expert Darryl Potter has spent three decades fearlessly tracking down these armoured beasts all along the Great Barrier Reef, and he's here to tell us why they're more than just an ornament for your bathroom. It's one shell of a show!

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]]> What has no arms, no legs, and no brain, but can flash like a disco light, help control pests and kill you in minutes? Queensland Museum's mollusc expert Darryl Potter has spent three decades fearlessly tracking down these armoured beasts all along the Great Barrier Reef, and he's here to tell us why they're more than just an ornament for your bathroom. It's one shell of a show!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17679055 Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2413 2 24 full false S2 E23: Swimming Against the Current: Overcoming Fear, Failure, and Neurodivergence to Become a Global Shark Advocate S2 E23: Swimming Against the Current: Overcoming Fear, Failure, and Neurodivergence to Become a Global Shark Advocate Growing up with ADHD and Dyslexia, Aliah Banchik never thought she could achieve calm focus, let alone become a successful scientist, artist and Netflix star. Then she discovered sharks.

In this inspiring episode, Aliah shares her mission to reshape how we see both sharks and neurodivergence, revealing the beauty in misunderstood animals and people alike.

We’ll also chat about her journey on Netflix’s All The Sharks—no spoilers, we promise!

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]]> Growing up with ADHD and Dyslexia, Aliah Banchik never thought she could achieve calm focus, let alone become a successful scientist, artist and Netflix star. Then she discovered sharks.

In this inspiring episode, Aliah shares her mission to reshape how we see both sharks and neurodivergence, revealing the beauty in misunderstood animals and people alike.

We’ll also chat about her journey on Netflix’s All The Sharks—no spoilers, we promise!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17645786 Sun, 10 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +1000 2584 2 23 full false S2 E22: Dammed if you Don't: Saving Fish from Migration Mayhem S2 E22: Dammed if you Don't: Saving Fish from Migration Mayhem Did you know some of our marine fish are living DOUBLE LIVES? That’s right, they want the best of both worlds, saltwater and freshwater. So one minute they’re living the dream on a beautiful coral reef, next minute they’ve decided they need a tree change, and they’re swimming up into our rivers. What are they doing there? And importantly – what happens when humans build dams, causeways and other watery traffic jams that block these fish from finishing their migration missions?

Thumbnail Image: Sean and colleague using electrofishing to capture fish for research purposes in New Zealand. Note: Do not attempt this in crocodile inhabited waters in Far North Queensland!

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]]> Did you know some of our marine fish are living DOUBLE LIVES? That’s right, they want the best of both worlds, saltwater and freshwater. So one minute they’re living the dream on a beautiful coral reef, next minute they’ve decided they need a tree change, and they’re swimming up into our rivers. What are they doing there? And importantly – what happens when humans build dams, causeways and other watery traffic jams that block these fish from finishing their migration missions?

Thumbnail Image: Sean and colleague using electrofishing to capture fish for research purposes in New Zealand. Note: Do not attempt this in crocodile inhabited waters in Far North Queensland!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17598226 Fri, 01 Aug 2025 21:00:00 +1000 2450 2 22 full false S2 E21: SPOTTED: The Great Barrier Reef's first known Whale Shark Aggregation Site S2 E21: SPOTTED: The Great Barrier Reef's first known Whale Shark Aggregation Site Whale sharks—harmless, majestic giants—have long been mystery visitors on the Great Barrier Reef, their movements shrouded in secrecy... until now. In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified the Reef’s first known whale shark aggregation site. Join us as we uncover where these elusive creatures have been hiding with Ingo Miller—marine biologist turned shark detective. On a mission to find and protect the world’s largest fish before it’s too late, Ingo followed the clues to their secret gathering spot. Want to know where it is? You’ll have to tune in to find out.

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]]> Whale sharks—harmless, majestic giants—have long been mystery visitors on the Great Barrier Reef, their movements shrouded in secrecy... until now. In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified the Reef’s first known whale shark aggregation site. Join us as we uncover where these elusive creatures have been hiding with Ingo Miller—marine biologist turned shark detective. On a mission to find and protect the world’s largest fish before it’s too late, Ingo followed the clues to their secret gathering spot. Want to know where it is? You’ll have to tune in to find out.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17566280 Sat, 26 Jul 2025 19:00:00 +1000 2459 2 21 full false S2 E20 Everything Kirsty Webeck Needs to Say About Sea Creatures S2 E20 Everything Kirsty Webeck Needs to Say About Sea Creatures Australian comedian Kirsty Webeck loves sea creatures. She's learned a lot about them through her lifelong passion for snorkelling - and now she's here to share what the sperm whales don't want you to know.  She is currently touring with her live standup show called Everything I Need to Say About Sea Creatures and it's a real hoot to have her joining us on Word on the Reef this week!

We also chat with Dave George from the Cairns Nautilus Scuba Club, who shares why joining your local dive club might be the best decision you make for your social life, your scuba skills, and your connection to the underwater world.

If you're someone who enjoys a good whale tale with a side of comedy, this episode’s for you!

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]]> Australian comedian Kirsty Webeck loves sea creatures. She's learned a lot about them through her lifelong passion for snorkelling - and now she's here to share what the sperm whales don't want you to know.  She is currently touring with her live standup show called Everything I Need to Say About Sea Creatures and it's a real hoot to have her joining us on Word on the Reef this week!

We also chat with Dave George from the Cairns Nautilus Scuba Club, who shares why joining your local dive club might be the best decision you make for your social life, your scuba skills, and your connection to the underwater world.

If you're someone who enjoys a good whale tale with a side of comedy, this episode’s for you!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17531920 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +1000 2457 2 20 full false S2 E19: Modern Day Castaway: A Gruelling 50 Days Alone on the Reef S2 E19: Modern Day Castaway: A Gruelling 50 Days Alone on the Reef Meet Mike Atkinson — former military pilot turned solo adventurer, survival expert, and filmmaker. In one of the boldest voyages ever attempted, Mike hand-carved a dugout canoe and sailed it 1,500 kilometres up the Great Barrier Reef — from Townsville to the Torres Strait — using only traditional, handmade fishing and hunting tools. No engine. No GPS. No esky.

Surviving on stingray, dried kangaroo, and sheer determination, Mike faced crocodiles, storms, and solitude — all in a quest to reconnect with nature and spotlight the urgent need to protect the Reef and honour Indigenous knowledge.

This is more than a survival story — it’s a challenge to all of us to rethink how modern life is pulling us away from what truly matters. What Mike discovered out there will both shock and inspire you.

FOLLOW MIKE

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]]> Meet Mike Atkinson — former military pilot turned solo adventurer, survival expert, and filmmaker. In one of the boldest voyages ever attempted, Mike hand-carved a dugout canoe and sailed it 1,500 kilometres up the Great Barrier Reef — from Townsville to the Torres Strait — using only traditional, handmade fishing and hunting tools. No engine. No GPS. No esky.

Surviving on stingray, dried kangaroo, and sheer determination, Mike faced crocodiles, storms, and solitude — all in a quest to reconnect with nature and spotlight the urgent need to protect the Reef and honour Indigenous knowledge.

This is more than a survival story — it’s a challenge to all of us to rethink how modern life is pulling us away from what truly matters. What Mike discovered out there will both shock and inspire you.

FOLLOW MIKE

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17492491 Sat, 12 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +1000 2613 2 19 full false S2 E18: Sex Under the Sea: The Weird World of Marine Reproduction S2 E18: Sex Under the Sea: The Weird World of Marine Reproduction Welcome to the ocean -- where your genitals are on your face, males give birth, and gender is more of a suggestion than a rule. You can snooze in a bubble of your own vomit or switch sexes overnight without anyone batting a fin. What a world!

This week we’re joined by Mike Scotland - marine biologist, underwater photographer, and editor of DiveLog Magazine. With 50 years of diving, thousands of dives, and two books under his weight belt (Marine Biology in the Wild and Diving With Sharks), Mike’s here to tell us why humans have more in common with flatworms than we’d like to admit -- and how to keep your spines clean if you’re a sea urchin. Dive in!

Thumbnail Image: Gold-speckled flatform (Thysanozoon nigropapillosum)

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]]> Welcome to the ocean -- where your genitals are on your face, males give birth, and gender is more of a suggestion than a rule. You can snooze in a bubble of your own vomit or switch sexes overnight without anyone batting a fin. What a world!

This week we’re joined by Mike Scotland - marine biologist, underwater photographer, and editor of DiveLog Magazine. With 50 years of diving, thousands of dives, and two books under his weight belt (Marine Biology in the Wild and Diving With Sharks), Mike’s here to tell us why humans have more in common with flatworms than we’d like to admit -- and how to keep your spines clean if you’re a sea urchin. Dive in!

Thumbnail Image: Gold-speckled flatform (Thysanozoon nigropapillosum)

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17454324 Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +1000 2303 2 18 full false S2 E17: Trawl Wars: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park vs. The Fishing Industry S2 E17: Trawl Wars: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park vs. The Fishing Industry The 1990s was a wild west era for fishing on the Great Barrier Reef. Even after being declared a Marine Park and a World Heritage area, more than 95% of the Great Barrier Reef was still being fished, and things were heading downhill fast. Then came a bombshell report that exposed what was really going on beneath the surface -- and all hell broke loose. What followed was a fierce battle known as the ‘Trawl Wars,' and unfortunately, it did not happen in a galaxy far, far away.

In this episode, we’re joined by legendary conservationist Imogen Zethoven, who was made Officer of the Order of Australia for her groundbreaking campaign to create the largest network of no fishing zones, also known as Green Zones, in the GBR Marine Park. Imogen shares how the fight was won -- and why the battle to protect our oceans is far from over.

Thumbnail Image: Imogen Zethoven in front of a van owned by a Mackay local at a meeting in the early 2000s.

Glossary of Australian Terms for our International Listeners

  • Prawns = what we call shrimps in Australia!
  • Tucker = a slang term for food
  • Canberra = our capital city, where Parliament House is located (we know you've never heard of it)
  • GBRMPA = Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (also known as the Reef Authority).
  • CSIRO "Sigh-Row" = Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (Australia's national science agency).
  • AFMA = Australian Fisheries Management Authority

Take Action on Overfishing:

-------------------------------


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]]> The 1990s was a wild west era for fishing on the Great Barrier Reef. Even after being declared a Marine Park and a World Heritage area, more than 95% of the Great Barrier Reef was still being fished, and things were heading downhill fast. Then came a bombshell report that exposed what was really going on beneath the surface -- and all hell broke loose. What followed was a fierce battle known as the ‘Trawl Wars,' and unfortunately, it did not happen in a galaxy far, far away.

In this episode, we’re joined by legendary conservationist Imogen Zethoven, who was made Officer of the Order of Australia for her groundbreaking campaign to create the largest network of no fishing zones, also known as Green Zones, in the GBR Marine Park. Imogen shares how the fight was won -- and why the battle to protect our oceans is far from over.

Thumbnail Image: Imogen Zethoven in front of a van owned by a Mackay local at a meeting in the early 2000s.

Glossary of Australian Terms for our International Listeners

  • Prawns = what we call shrimps in Australia!
  • Tucker = a slang term for food
  • Canberra = our capital city, where Parliament House is located (we know you've never heard of it)
  • GBRMPA = Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (also known as the Reef Authority).
  • CSIRO "Sigh-Row" = Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (Australia's national science agency).
  • AFMA = Australian Fisheries Management Authority

Take Action on Overfishing:

-------------------------------


Support the show


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17412813 Sat, 28 Jun 2025 23:00:00 +1000 2655 2 17 full false S2 E16: Shark Tracker: The Wild Life of Richard Fitzpatrick S2 E16: Shark Tracker: The Wild Life of Richard Fitzpatrick Richard Fitzpatrick wants to change the way you think about sharks.

Ever since he kept a pet shark as a kid, Richard has made it his life’s mission to rewrite the story of one of the ocean’s most misunderstood predators. Now an Emmy-winning cinematographer, marine biologist and shark researcher, he’s spent more than 15,000 hours swimming with sharks — filming them, tagging them, and tracking them for science, often using wildly unorthodox (and very hands-on) methods.

In this episode of Word on the Reef, learn how to rope and tame a wild shark, why jokes can come back to bite you in the butt (literally), and why you should always watch your footing when you’re standing on a boat surrounded by sharks.

We bust some myths about shark behaviour, and explore how cutting-edge research is helping protect both humans and these vital apex predators. Whether you’re afraid of sharks, fascinated by them, or a bit of both — this episode is for you.

Learn More

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]]> Richard Fitzpatrick wants to change the way you think about sharks.

Ever since he kept a pet shark as a kid, Richard has made it his life’s mission to rewrite the story of one of the ocean’s most misunderstood predators. Now an Emmy-winning cinematographer, marine biologist and shark researcher, he’s spent more than 15,000 hours swimming with sharks — filming them, tagging them, and tracking them for science, often using wildly unorthodox (and very hands-on) methods.

In this episode of Word on the Reef, learn how to rope and tame a wild shark, why jokes can come back to bite you in the butt (literally), and why you should always watch your footing when you’re standing on a boat surrounded by sharks.

We bust some myths about shark behaviour, and explore how cutting-edge research is helping protect both humans and these vital apex predators. Whether you’re afraid of sharks, fascinated by them, or a bit of both — this episode is for you.

Learn More

Support the show


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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17372529 Sat, 21 Jun 2025 14:00:00 +1000 2892 2 16 full false S2 E15: Save the Reef from your Sofa: Citizen Science with Nicole Senn S2 E15: Save the Reef from your Sofa: Citizen Science with Nicole Senn Did you know you can help with coral research on the Great Barrier Reef without even leaving your couch? On this week's episode of Word on the Reef, get ready to swipe right on high-value corals as we dive into the incredible world of citizen science.

Our guest is Nicole Senn, Head of Engagement at Citizens of the Reef and passionate ocean advocate, who reveals how everyday people all over the world are helping monitor coral health - no snorkel or flippers required! Nicole shares how the data you analyse on your phone or laptop can make a real-world difference for Reef conservation... And win you a free trip to the real Reef!

Find out how you can become a citizen scientist, contribute to global coral research, and be part of the solution.

Find out More:

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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Did you know you can help with coral research on the Great Barrier Reef without even leaving your couch? On this week's episode of Word on the Reef, get ready to swipe right on high-value corals as we dive into the incredible world of citizen science.

Our guest is Nicole Senn, Head of Engagement at Citizens of the Reef and passionate ocean advocate, who reveals how everyday people all over the world are helping monitor coral health - no snorkel or flippers required! Nicole shares how the data you analyse on your phone or laptop can make a real-world difference for Reef conservation... And win you a free trip to the real Reef!

Find out how you can become a citizen scientist, contribute to global coral research, and be part of the solution.

Find out More:

Support the show


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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17330104 Fri, 13 Jun 2025 20:00:00 +1000 2692 2 15 full false S2 E14: Tree-mendous Impacts: How Forests Help Save Coral Reefs S2 E14: Tree-mendous Impacts: How Forests Help Save Coral Reefs Did you know that deforestation up to 1,000 kilometres inland can harm coral reefs and potentially fuel outbreaks of coral-eating starfish? This week we explore one of the lesser-known but critical threats to the Great Barrier Reef: declining water quality due to land clearing.

Our guest this week is Sarah Sims, a conservation and land management expert, dive instructor, and underwater photographer based in Cairns. Sarah's love of the Reef has inspired her to trace water pollution back to its roots: literally. Sarah is the powerhouse behind two not-for-profit reforestation initiatives - TreeForce Cairns and Holloways Beach Coast Care. Sarah helps us unpack the staggering extent of land clearing in Queensland, and what we can all do to reforest our riverbanks and restore the health of our oceans.

Support the show


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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Did you know that deforestation up to 1,000 kilometres inland can harm coral reefs and potentially fuel outbreaks of coral-eating starfish? This week we explore one of the lesser-known but critical threats to the Great Barrier Reef: declining water quality due to land clearing.

Our guest this week is Sarah Sims, a conservation and land management expert, dive instructor, and underwater photographer based in Cairns. Sarah's love of the Reef has inspired her to trace water pollution back to its roots: literally. Sarah is the powerhouse behind two not-for-profit reforestation initiatives - TreeForce Cairns and Holloways Beach Coast Care. Sarah helps us unpack the staggering extent of land clearing in Queensland, and what we can all do to reforest our riverbanks and restore the health of our oceans.

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17291727 Fri, 06 Jun 2025 19:00:00 +1000 2588 2 14 full false S2 E13: Undercover Investigation: The Supermarket Plastics Trashing our Oceans S2 E13: Undercover Investigation: The Supermarket Plastics Trashing our Oceans Did you know Aussies are among the worst plastic polluters on the planet - second only to Singapore for our use of single-use plastic packaging? Every year, 145,000 tonnes of plastic waste leak into our environment, and most of it comes from our supermarkets.

Many of these plastics are not recyclable, and even when binned “correctly," they escape - blown by wind, swept by rain - ending up in rivers, oceans, and inside marine life. From turtles mistaking bags for jellyfish to seabirds literally crunching from the plastic in their guts, our throwaway culture is devastating wildlife… and it’s coming back to poison us too.

But there are solutions.

This week, we’re joined by Tara Jones, Plastics & Packaging Program Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, who reveals the shock findings from her supermarket plastics investigation. It's infuriating and eye opening, but it also holds the key to what we can do to stop the plastic tide.

💙 Plus: Find out how to join our Fin Club and receive a personalised video message from your favourite marine animal at the Cairns Aquarium!

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Did you know Aussies are among the worst plastic polluters on the planet - second only to Singapore for our use of single-use plastic packaging? Every year, 145,000 tonnes of plastic waste leak into our environment, and most of it comes from our supermarkets.

Many of these plastics are not recyclable, and even when binned “correctly," they escape - blown by wind, swept by rain - ending up in rivers, oceans, and inside marine life. From turtles mistaking bags for jellyfish to seabirds literally crunching from the plastic in their guts, our throwaway culture is devastating wildlife… and it’s coming back to poison us too.

But there are solutions.

This week, we’re joined by Tara Jones, Plastics & Packaging Program Manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, who reveals the shock findings from her supermarket plastics investigation. It's infuriating and eye opening, but it also holds the key to what we can do to stop the plastic tide.

💙 Plus: Find out how to join our Fin Club and receive a personalised video message from your favourite marine animal at the Cairns Aquarium!

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17251857 Fri, 30 May 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2599 2 13 full false S2 E12: Toxic Tide: South Australia's Deadly Algal Bloom Disaster S2 E12: Toxic Tide: South Australia's Deadly Algal Bloom Disaster In South Australia, a toxic algal bloom has resulted in more than 12,000 marine animals from nearly 450 different species washing up dead on local beaches, turning once-thriving ecosystems into underwater graveyards and leaving locals traumatised... But what's causing this disaster, and what can we do about it?

This week's guest: Stefan Andrews, marine biologist, filmmaker, educator, and Co-Founder of the Great Southern Reef Foundation,

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]]> In South Australia, a toxic algal bloom has resulted in more than 12,000 marine animals from nearly 450 different species washing up dead on local beaches, turning once-thriving ecosystems into underwater graveyards and leaving locals traumatised... But what's causing this disaster, and what can we do about it?

This week's guest: Stefan Andrews, marine biologist, filmmaker, educator, and Co-Founder of the Great Southern Reef Foundation,

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17214397 Fri, 23 May 2025 21:00:00 +1000 3441 2 12 full false S2 E11: How to Save the Ocean: Taking Meaningful Action on Climate Change S2 E11: How to Save the Ocean: Taking Meaningful Action on Climate Change Climate Change is the biggest threat to coral reefs worldwide, causing unprecedented coral bleaching events. But there are things we can all do to help - and you don't need to be a marine biologist or even live anywhere near the ocean to make a difference! Here's your guide to powerful, practical climate action to help save the Great Barrier Reef - and the best part? You can do it from anywhere!

Joining us this week is marine scientist and climate campaigner Dr Yolanda Waters, founder and CEO of Divers for Climate, to share real, tangible ways to take action — no matter who you are or where you live.

In this episode:

  • What’s really holding people back from urgent climate action?
  • Does community action actually work?
  • Making it personal: how to align your climate action with your passions and skills
  • The A-B-C of climate action: six categories to remember
  • Why joining an action group aligned to your interests makes a huge difference
  • How being a First Nations ally fits into climate justice
  • What’s more impactful: lifestyle changes, social actions, or civic action?
  • “If I recycle and use a keep cup, is that enough?”
  • The role of citizen science, coral surveys, and coral restoration
  • How to talk about climate change in ways that motivate and inspire
  • Why we need more storytellers — not more statistics
  • How to turn your love for the reef into a meaningful career in climate and conservation

Take Action Now:

📸 Thumbnail Image by Darian Woods

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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Climate Change is the biggest threat to coral reefs worldwide, causing unprecedented coral bleaching events. But there are things we can all do to help - and you don't need to be a marine biologist or even live anywhere near the ocean to make a difference! Here's your guide to powerful, practical climate action to help save the Great Barrier Reef - and the best part? You can do it from anywhere!

Joining us this week is marine scientist and climate campaigner Dr Yolanda Waters, founder and CEO of Divers for Climate, to share real, tangible ways to take action — no matter who you are or where you live.

In this episode:

  • What’s really holding people back from urgent climate action?
  • Does community action actually work?
  • Making it personal: how to align your climate action with your passions and skills
  • The A-B-C of climate action: six categories to remember
  • Why joining an action group aligned to your interests makes a huge difference
  • How being a First Nations ally fits into climate justice
  • What’s more impactful: lifestyle changes, social actions, or civic action?
  • “If I recycle and use a keep cup, is that enough?”
  • The role of citizen science, coral surveys, and coral restoration
  • How to talk about climate change in ways that motivate and inspire
  • Why we need more storytellers — not more statistics
  • How to turn your love for the reef into a meaningful career in climate and conservation

Take Action Now:

📸 Thumbnail Image by Darian Woods

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17178492 Sat, 17 May 2025 14:00:00 +1000 3713 2 11 full false S2 E10: Trash Talk: Inside the Marine Debris Crisis on the Great Barrier Reef – and What You Can Do S2 E10: Trash Talk: Inside the Marine Debris Crisis on the Great Barrier Reef – and What You Can Do This week we head to the remote beaches of the Great Barrier Reef—where plastic pollution is piling up faster than we can clean it. But is picking up rubbish really the solution? Or just the beginning?

Join us as we play trash detective with marine debris expert Heidi Tait, founder of Tangaroa Blue and the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. From her early days as a dive instructor to shaping global plastic policies, Heidi shares her extraordinary story—and the innovative ways she’s turning data into action.

Discover where this plastic really comes from, why even the most isolated coastlines aren’t safe, and how you can be part of the movement to stop pollution before it hits the beach.

Plus, hosts Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban break down what the latest Federal Election means for the future of the Great Barrier Reef.

Support the show


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Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> This week we head to the remote beaches of the Great Barrier Reef—where plastic pollution is piling up faster than we can clean it. But is picking up rubbish really the solution? Or just the beginning?

Join us as we play trash detective with marine debris expert Heidi Tait, founder of Tangaroa Blue and the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. From her early days as a dive instructor to shaping global plastic policies, Heidi shares her extraordinary story—and the innovative ways she’s turning data into action.

Discover where this plastic really comes from, why even the most isolated coastlines aren’t safe, and how you can be part of the movement to stop pollution before it hits the beach.

Plus, hosts Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban break down what the latest Federal Election means for the future of the Great Barrier Reef.

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17128643 Fri, 09 May 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2499 2 10 full false S2 E9: Catching Air, Calling for Action: A Tour Operator's Plea to Save the Great Barrier Reef S2 E9: Catching Air, Calling for Action: A Tour Operator's Plea to Save the Great Barrier Reef Brett Wright has spent the past 30 years taking visitors to the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas with his tour company Windswell Adventures—and he's seen the changes up close. From worsening coral bleaching to the devastation of extreme weather events, climate change is no longer a distant threat, but a reality affecting his livelihood and the Reef he loves. Brett shares a heartfelt call for stronger climate leadership, while reminding us that the Reef is still alive, breathtaking, and worth fighting for.

Also in this episode: How do we talk to others about climate change in a way that inspires, not alienates? Zef Aster, Outreach Campaigner and long-time volunteer with the Australian Marine Conservation Society, shares practical tips for starting meaningful conversations and creating real community impact.

Join diver and conservationist Tanya Murphy and marine educator Brett Goodban as we explore marine science on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Brett Wright has spent the past 30 years taking visitors to the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas with his tour company Windswell Adventures—and he's seen the changes up close. From worsening coral bleaching to the devastation of extreme weather events, climate change is no longer a distant threat, but a reality affecting his livelihood and the Reef he loves. Brett shares a heartfelt call for stronger climate leadership, while reminding us that the Reef is still alive, breathtaking, and worth fighting for.

Also in this episode: How do we talk to others about climate change in a way that inspires, not alienates? Zef Aster, Outreach Campaigner and long-time volunteer with the Australian Marine Conservation Society, shares practical tips for starting meaningful conversations and creating real community impact.

Join diver and conservationist Tanya Murphy and marine educator Brett Goodban as we explore marine science on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17083707 Fri, 02 May 2025 15:00:00 +1000 2501 2 9 full false S2 E8: Hot Water and Hot Air: Which Political Parties Have the Best Policies to Protect the Great Barrier Reef? S2 E8: Hot Water and Hot Air: Which Political Parties Have the Best Policies to Protect the Great Barrier Reef? In this special Election Edition of Word on the Reef, Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban dive into one of the most critical questions facing Australians ahead of the Federal Election: Who has the best plan to save the Great Barrier Reef?

To find out, we’re joined by Maria Poulos Conklin, Head of Government Relations at the Australian Conservation Foundation, who breaks down ACF's powerful Election Scorecard, comparing how each major party stacks up on climate and environmental policies... and let's just say it's a little confronting!

PLUS, all the major political candidates for the Far North Queensland electorate of Leichhardt have been invited to share their Reef protection policies with us. Today we're joined by Dr Phillip Musumeci, Greens candidate for Leichhardt, to talk about tube worms, space lasers and why sheep are big fans of solar energy. 🐑

If you care about the Reef and having a safe climate, this episode is a must-listen before you head to the polls.

🎧 Listen now and share with a mate who's still deciding their vote.
 🌐 Scorecard link: www.acf.org.au/scorecard

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]]> In this special Election Edition of Word on the Reef, Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban dive into one of the most critical questions facing Australians ahead of the Federal Election: Who has the best plan to save the Great Barrier Reef?

To find out, we’re joined by Maria Poulos Conklin, Head of Government Relations at the Australian Conservation Foundation, who breaks down ACF's powerful Election Scorecard, comparing how each major party stacks up on climate and environmental policies... and let's just say it's a little confronting!

PLUS, all the major political candidates for the Far North Queensland electorate of Leichhardt have been invited to share their Reef protection policies with us. Today we're joined by Dr Phillip Musumeci, Greens candidate for Leichhardt, to talk about tube worms, space lasers and why sheep are big fans of solar energy. 🐑

If you care about the Reef and having a safe climate, this episode is a must-listen before you head to the polls.

🎧 Listen now and share with a mate who's still deciding their vote.
 🌐 Scorecard link: www.acf.org.au/scorecard

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17041334 Fri, 25 Apr 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2397 2 8 full false S2 E7: Coral in Crisis: The Great Barrier Reef's Sixth Mass Bleaching Event in 9 Years S2 E7: Coral in Crisis: The Great Barrier Reef's Sixth Mass Bleaching Event in 9 Years The federal election is just two weeks away — and it turns out some politicians are still floundering when it comes to climate change. While the Reef suffers, some parties are busy serving up red herrings instead of real solutions.
 
This week Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban dive into the national emergency that should be making front-page news: the GBR's sixth mass coral bleaching in nine years. That’s right — the Reef’s in hot water, and some leaders are still dodging the science like slippery eels.

We’re joined by special guest Simon Miller from the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack the science, the politics, and the solutions. If you care about the Reef, this is the election to vote like it. For more information on how you can help, visit www.fightforourreef.org.au

Also in this episode:

🐡 Brett shares what the fish think of your vote (and Big Chang the fish throws some serious side-eye.)
 🗳️ Which parties are promising action, and which want to scrap climate targets altogether
  🚒 And why this election might be our last real chance to save the Reef

📸 Photo by Angelina Pilarinos

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]]> The federal election is just two weeks away — and it turns out some politicians are still floundering when it comes to climate change. While the Reef suffers, some parties are busy serving up red herrings instead of real solutions.
 
This week Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban dive into the national emergency that should be making front-page news: the GBR's sixth mass coral bleaching in nine years. That’s right — the Reef’s in hot water, and some leaders are still dodging the science like slippery eels.

We’re joined by special guest Simon Miller from the Australian Marine Conservation Society to unpack the science, the politics, and the solutions. If you care about the Reef, this is the election to vote like it. For more information on how you can help, visit www.fightforourreef.org.au

Also in this episode:

🐡 Brett shares what the fish think of your vote (and Big Chang the fish throws some serious side-eye.)
 🗳️ Which parties are promising action, and which want to scrap climate targets altogether
  🚒 And why this election might be our last real chance to save the Reef

📸 Photo by Angelina Pilarinos

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16999778 Fri, 18 Apr 2025 14:00:00 +1000 2817 2 7 full false S2 E6: Wilderness Under Threat: Western Australia's Incredible Reefs S2 E6: Wilderness Under Threat: Western Australia's Incredible Reefs This week, our guest is West Australian coral ecologist Associate Professor Zoe Richards, who's had some extraordinary dives - with crocodiles, on nuclear bomb sites, and discovering new coral species!

We'll journey to Micronesia to uncover an ancient civilisation that built mysterious structures from coral, and to Western Australia's World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef, now sadly in the grips of a mass bleaching event.

From emus on the beach to seals frolicking with corals, this is both a love letter to WA’s reefs and a powerful wake-up call for their protection.

📸 Sea Lion on acropora coral at the Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia, Photo by David Juszkiewicz

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]]> This week, our guest is West Australian coral ecologist Associate Professor Zoe Richards, who's had some extraordinary dives - with crocodiles, on nuclear bomb sites, and discovering new coral species!

We'll journey to Micronesia to uncover an ancient civilisation that built mysterious structures from coral, and to Western Australia's World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef, now sadly in the grips of a mass bleaching event.

From emus on the beach to seals frolicking with corals, this is both a love letter to WA’s reefs and a powerful wake-up call for their protection.

📸 Sea Lion on acropora coral at the Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia, Photo by David Juszkiewicz

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16957768 Sat, 12 Apr 2025 01:00:00 +1000 2677 2 6 full false S2 E5: Paradise in Peril: Lizard Island's Reefs on the Brink S2 E5: Paradise in Peril: Lizard Island's Reefs on the Brink This week we're heading back to spectacular Lizard Island to uncover what’s changed since last year’s record-breaking coral bleaching event.

 New research station co-director Dr David Abrego takes us a vivid tour of this world-renowned reef science hub and shares the sobering reality of back-to-back bleaching events that are pushing corals to the brink.

 From flying over glittering turquoise waters to diving deep into marine heatwaves, coral adaptation, and reef restoration, this episode is a rollercoaster of awe, hope, and heartbreak. Discover why Lizard Island has been visited by the likes of David Attenborough and former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, how it inspired world heritage protection, and why what happens there could determine the fate of reefs everywhere.

Highlights include:

  • The stunning geography and biodiversity of Lizard Island
  • The science behind coral bleaching and why it’s now annual
  • Hopeful insights into coral resilience and adaptation research
  • What each of us can do—right now—to help protect the reef
  • How solar-powered science and climate action are lighting the path forward

This is more than just a reef update—it’s a call to action. Because if we protect the reef, we protect ourselves.

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]]> This week we're heading back to spectacular Lizard Island to uncover what’s changed since last year’s record-breaking coral bleaching event.

 New research station co-director Dr David Abrego takes us a vivid tour of this world-renowned reef science hub and shares the sobering reality of back-to-back bleaching events that are pushing corals to the brink.

 From flying over glittering turquoise waters to diving deep into marine heatwaves, coral adaptation, and reef restoration, this episode is a rollercoaster of awe, hope, and heartbreak. Discover why Lizard Island has been visited by the likes of David Attenborough and former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser, how it inspired world heritage protection, and why what happens there could determine the fate of reefs everywhere.

Highlights include:

  • The stunning geography and biodiversity of Lizard Island
  • The science behind coral bleaching and why it’s now annual
  • Hopeful insights into coral resilience and adaptation research
  • What each of us can do—right now—to help protect the reef
  • How solar-powered science and climate action are lighting the path forward

This is more than just a reef update—it’s a call to action. Because if we protect the reef, we protect ourselves.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16915737 Fri, 04 Apr 2025 18:00:00 +1000 2269 2 5 full false S2 E4: Diving for Climate: Can Tourism Help Protect the Great Barrier Reef? S2 E4: Diving for Climate: Can Tourism Help Protect the Great Barrier Reef? This week, we dive deep into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef’s current coral bleaching crisis with marine social scientist and CEO of Divers for Climate, Dr. Yolanda Waters.

🔬 What’s causing this widespread bleaching event?
 🌍 How does reef tourism play a crucial role in protecting our oceans?
 🤿 What can divers, snorkelers, and everyday citizens do to take action?

Join us as we explore Yolanda’s groundbreaking research on how climate conversations in tourism can inspire real change. From the power of education on the reef to the actions we can take beyond the water, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and a call to action for everyone who loves the ocean.

Don’t miss this essential conversation.

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

🔬 What’s causing this widespread bleaching event?
 🌍 How does reef tourism play a crucial role in protecting our oceans?
 🤿 What can divers, snorkelers, and everyday citizens do to take action?

Join us as we explore Yolanda’s groundbreaking research on how climate conversations in tourism can inspire real change. From the power of education on the reef to the actions we can take beyond the water, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and a call to action for everyone who loves the ocean.

Don’t miss this essential conversation.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16874525 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +1000 2576 2 4 full false S2 E3: It Snot What You Think: How Whale Mucus can help us Protect Whales S2 E3: It Snot What You Think: How Whale Mucus can help us Protect Whales This week, conservationist, photographer and filmmaker Christian Miller takes us on an unforgettable journey — from swimming alongside the planet’s largest animal, to eavesdropping on a humpback whale krill hunt. Along the way, we’ll dodge jaguars and flesh-eating ants in the Amazon, and learn why you can’t hide anything from a whale (spoiler: they can literally see through you). Strap in — it’s a wild ride. 

It's our third week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

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]]> This week, conservationist, photographer and filmmaker Christian Miller takes us on an unforgettable journey — from swimming alongside the planet’s largest animal, to eavesdropping on a humpback whale krill hunt. Along the way, we’ll dodge jaguars and flesh-eating ants in the Amazon, and learn why you can’t hide anything from a whale (spoiler: they can literally see through you). Strap in — it’s a wild ride. 

It's our third week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16834784 Fri, 21 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +1000 2657 2 3 full false S2 E2: Magnificent Magnetic Island: The Great Barrier Reef's Best Kept Secret S2 E2: Magnificent Magnetic Island: The Great Barrier Reef's Best Kept Secret This week, marine biologist and underwater photographer Lawrence Scheele takes us beneath the surface at Magnetic Island for a wild and wonderful tour of its marine life.

Discover how jellyfish can detect and dodge humans (despite having no brains), why attempting sign language with a cuttlefish is a big mistake, and how to spot the telltale signs that an octopus might be living in your neighbourhood (spoiler: they are messy!)

Check out Lawrence's Book here!

It's our second week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

Support the show


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]]> This week, marine biologist and underwater photographer Lawrence Scheele takes us beneath the surface at Magnetic Island for a wild and wonderful tour of its marine life.

Discover how jellyfish can detect and dodge humans (despite having no brains), why attempting sign language with a cuttlefish is a big mistake, and how to spot the telltale signs that an octopus might be living in your neighbourhood (spoiler: they are messy!)

Check out Lawrence's Book here!

It's our second week broadcasting the show live on CairnsFM 89.1 and it's a cracker! Catch us live every Friday at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and beyond.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16790316 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +1000 2569 2 2 full false S2 E1: Heartbreak and Healing on the Great Barrier Reef: How the Ocean Gave Me A Second Chance At Life S2 E1: Heartbreak and Healing on the Great Barrier Reef: How the Ocean Gave Me A Second Chance At Life Word on the Reef is back — and now broadcasting live on CairnsFM 89.1 every Friday at 10am (Queensland Time)! Tune in on your radio or stream online at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into marine science on the Great Barrier ReEef and beyond!

In our Season Two premiere, host Tanya Murphy opens up about how the underwater world transformed her life — and we welcome a brand new co-host, Brett Goodban.

Brett had racked up over 16,000 dives and was living his dream life as an underwater photographer on the Reef when heartbreak struck. Literally.
A massive heart attack at the age of just 43 left him in a coma for seven weeks. Nobody thought he would wake up. But when he did, doctors told him the unthinkable: you can never dive again.

Stripped of his identity and purpose, Brett spiralled into darkness — until the ocean called him back in a surprising and powerful way.

This is a moving story about loss, resilience, and finding hope where you least expect it.

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]]> Word on the Reef is back — and now broadcasting live on CairnsFM 89.1 every Friday at 10am (Queensland Time)! Tune in on your radio or stream online at cairnsfm891.org.au for your weekly deep dive into marine science on the Great Barrier ReEef and beyond!

In our Season Two premiere, host Tanya Murphy opens up about how the underwater world transformed her life — and we welcome a brand new co-host, Brett Goodban.

Brett had racked up over 16,000 dives and was living his dream life as an underwater photographer on the Reef when heartbreak struck. Literally.
A massive heart attack at the age of just 43 left him in a coma for seven weeks. Nobody thought he would wake up. But when he did, doctors told him the unthinkable: you can never dive again.

Stripped of his identity and purpose, Brett spiralled into darkness — until the ocean called him back in a surprising and powerful way.

This is a moving story about loss, resilience, and finding hope where you least expect it.

Support the show


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-16750093 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +1000 2473 2 1 full false S1 E16: Top 8 Animals to See at the Great Barrier Reef: Part III S1 E16: Top 8 Animals to See at the Great Barrier Reef: Part III In this jam-packed finale to our three-part series, Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller joins host Tanya Murphy to finally reveal the top three most iconic animals to see on the Reef - and our insider secrets on where, when, and how to find them. If you’re planning a Reef adventure, you won't want to miss this episode!

This is Part 3 of our fan-favourite series, "Top 8 Animals to See on the Great Barrier Reef – and Where to Find Them", which began back in Season 1, Episode 13. If you haven’t heard the first two episodes yet, don't forget to check those out too!

Thumbnail image by Tahn Miller


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]]> In this jam-packed finale to our three-part series, Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller joins host Tanya Murphy to finally reveal the top three most iconic animals to see on the Reef - and our insider secrets on where, when, and how to find them. If you’re planning a Reef adventure, you won't want to miss this episode!

This is Part 3 of our fan-favourite series, "Top 8 Animals to See on the Great Barrier Reef – and Where to Find Them", which began back in Season 1, Episode 13. If you haven’t heard the first two episodes yet, don't forget to check those out too!

Thumbnail image by Tahn Miller


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-17482407 Sat, 21 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +1000 2636 1 16 full false S1 E15: Top 8 Animals to See At the Great Barrier Reef: Part II S1 E15: Top 8 Animals to See At the Great Barrier Reef: Part II Today we're continuing our countdown of the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them, with Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller. You won't believe some of the encounters he's had with today's animals!

Follow Tahn on Instagram

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]]> Today we're continuing our countdown of the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them, with Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller. You won't believe some of the encounters he's had with today's animals!

Follow Tahn on Instagram

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15751507 Sat, 14 Sep 2024 22:00:00 +1000 1642 1 15 full false S1 E14: Is the Great Barrier Reef in Danger? S1 E14: Is the Great Barrier Reef in Danger? The Great Barrier Reef has just experienced its worst summer on record, with cyclones, severe rainfall, flooding, and its most extreme coral bleaching event ever. The World Heritage Committee has expressed concerns that the Australian Government isn't doing enough to protect the Reef, particularly regarding its climate policies, and advised the Reef may face a possible 'In Danger' listing. To explain what that means and what we need to do about it, our guest this week is Reef and World Heritage Expert Dr Jon Day.

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]]> The Great Barrier Reef has just experienced its worst summer on record, with cyclones, severe rainfall, flooding, and its most extreme coral bleaching event ever. The World Heritage Committee has expressed concerns that the Australian Government isn't doing enough to protect the Reef, particularly regarding its climate policies, and advised the Reef may face a possible 'In Danger' listing. To explain what that means and what we need to do about it, our guest this week is Reef and World Heritage Expert Dr Jon Day.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15569152 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 23:00:00 +1000 1976 1 14 full false S1 E13: Top 8 Animals to See at the Great Barrier Reef (and Where to Find Them) S1 E13: Top 8 Animals to See at the Great Barrier Reef (and Where to Find Them) Tahn Miller is a Master Reef Guide who has spent 14 years observing and teaching people about magical creatures on the Great Barrier Reef. Join us as we swap crazy stories about close encounters with these incredible animals, while counting down the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them! (JK Rowling reference, for the Muggles out there).

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]]> Tahn Miller is a Master Reef Guide who has spent 14 years observing and teaching people about magical creatures on the Great Barrier Reef. Join us as we swap crazy stories about close encounters with these incredible animals, while counting down the Top 8 Fantastic Beasts of the Great Barrier Reef and Where to Find Them! (JK Rowling reference, for the Muggles out there).

Support the show


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15472693 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 20:00:00 +1000 1952 1 13 full false S1 E12: Whale Season on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Olaf Meynecke S1 E12: Whale Season on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Olaf Meynecke Winter is an incredible time to see, hear, and even swim with whales on the Great Barrier Reef! But they also get up to some pretty weird things, and today we'll learn all about the secrets of whales from someone who has dedicated his life to studying them.

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]]> Winter is an incredible time to see, hear, and even swim with whales on the Great Barrier Reef! But they also get up to some pretty weird things, and today we'll learn all about the secrets of whales from someone who has dedicated his life to studying them.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15300536 Mon, 24 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +1000 2825 1 12 full false S1 E11: Breaking: Global Coral Bleaching Event with Dr Derek Manzello S1 E11: Breaking: Global Coral Bleaching Event with Dr Derek Manzello It's official - we are in the midst of the world’s worst coral bleaching event on record, affecting two thirds of corals globally, spanning some 64 countries and territories. We've already explored some of the impacts on the Great Barrier Reef - this week we'll head overseas to find out about the impacts in other countries.

To see the map discussed in this episode: https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-confirms-4th-global-coral-bleaching-event

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]]> It's official - we are in the midst of the world’s worst coral bleaching event on record, affecting two thirds of corals globally, spanning some 64 countries and territories. We've already explored some of the impacts on the Great Barrier Reef - this week we'll head overseas to find out about the impacts in other countries.

To see the map discussed in this episode: https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-confirms-4th-global-coral-bleaching-event

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15218147 Sun, 09 Jun 2024 20:00:00 +1000 1810 1 11 full false S1 E10: Drills and Spills: How The Great Barrier Reef Was Saved from Big Oil S1 E10: Drills and Spills: How The Great Barrier Reef Was Saved from Big Oil In the 1960s, the future of the Great Barrier Reef was in jeopardy when a covert deal to drill for oil threatened its survival. A brave group of volunteers took on powerful forces and won, saving the Reef for future generations. Today we're talking with two of those heroes - Eddie Hegerl and Di Tarte. This episode reveals their inspiring fight and why their battle still matters today.

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]]> In the 1960s, the future of the Great Barrier Reef was in jeopardy when a covert deal to drill for oil threatened its survival. A brave group of volunteers took on powerful forces and won, saving the Reef for future generations. Today we're talking with two of those heroes - Eddie Hegerl and Di Tarte. This episode reveals their inspiring fight and why their battle still matters today.

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PROTECT THE REEF - Sign these Petitions Now!

]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15128122 Fri, 24 May 2024 15:00:00 +1000 2138 1 10 full false S1 E9: Coral or Concrete: How the Great Barrier Reef was Saved from Coral Mining S1 E9: Coral or Concrete: How the Great Barrier Reef was Saved from Coral Mining In the late 1960s, the Great Barrier Reef faced destruction from coral mining to supply materials for fertilizer and concrete. Few knew or cared about it, until a group of passionate volunteers stepped in to stop the devastation. In this episode, we meet Eddie Hegerl and Di Tarte, two of the original trailblazers who fought to protect the Reef. Hear their powerful story and explore the hidden history of how close we came to losing one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Episode Image: A young Eddie Hegerl.

References:


See also: www.ninneyrise.com

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]]> In the late 1960s, the Great Barrier Reef faced destruction from coral mining to supply materials for fertilizer and concrete. Few knew or cared about it, until a group of passionate volunteers stepped in to stop the devastation. In this episode, we meet Eddie Hegerl and Di Tarte, two of the original trailblazers who fought to protect the Reef. Hear their powerful story and explore the hidden history of how close we came to losing one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Episode Image: A young Eddie Hegerl.

References:


See also: www.ninneyrise.com

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-15006732 Sat, 04 May 2024 19:00:00 +1000 1086 1 9 full false S1 E8: Sea Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef with Richard Fitzpatrick S1 E8: Sea Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef with Richard Fitzpatrick 🐢  Sea turtles can grow to the size of a table, navigate using magnets in their brain, and fight off gangs of sharks. 🦈  But after 100 million years in our oceans, their existence is now under threat. This week we visit Raine Island with Marine Biologist and Emmy-winning cinematographer Richard Fitzpatrick to find out why.

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]]> 🐢  Sea turtles can grow to the size of a table, navigate using magnets in their brain, and fight off gangs of sharks. 🦈  But after 100 million years in our oceans, their existence is now under threat. This week we visit Raine Island with Marine Biologist and Emmy-winning cinematographer Richard Fitzpatrick to find out why.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14911690 Thu, 18 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +1000 2067 1 8 full false S1 E7: Coral restoration on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Lorna Howlett S1 E7: Coral restoration on the Great Barrier Reef with Dr Lorna Howlett This week we visit a coral nursery near Port Douglas, to see how tourism operators are teaming up with scientists to care for their patches of reef. The Coral Nurture Program is showing promising results - but what are its limitations, and what role does it play in protecting our Reef? 🪸

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

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14819341 Wed, 03 Apr 2024 21:00:00 +1000 1578 1 7 full false S1 E6: Coral Bleaching at Lizard Island with Dr Anne Hoggett S1 E6: Coral Bleaching at Lizard Island with Dr Anne Hoggett The Marine Park Authority has confirmed the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its seventh mass coral bleaching event - the fifth in just eight years, driven by global warming 🫠 This week we head to stunning Lizard Island to find out what's causing this disaster and what we can all do to help 🏝️ 

Note: At the end of the episode I mentioned a petition you can sign to help protect the Reef; I've just been notified that the petition is still under construction and will hopefully be live some time next week (from 25 March).

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]]> The Marine Park Authority has confirmed the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its seventh mass coral bleaching event - the fifth in just eight years, driven by global warming 🫠 This week we head to stunning Lizard Island to find out what's causing this disaster and what we can all do to help 🏝️ 

Note: At the end of the episode I mentioned a petition you can sign to help protect the Reef; I've just been notified that the petition is still under construction and will hopefully be live some time next week (from 25 March).

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14728357 Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +1000 1549 1 6 full false S1 E5: First Peoples of the Great Barrier Reef with Malachi Johnson S1 E5: First Peoples of the Great Barrier Reef with Malachi Johnson “The Reef is our nervous system. It’s made up of land, sea , sky, animals, and people… Once we destroy that nervous system, it’s critical damage for our body. Because we are all one." 🙌🏽 🌏 This week, Gooreng Gooreng man Malachi Johnson talks about how Indigenous ways of viewing the world can help us heal our relationship with the Reef, heal our relationship with each other, and ultimately, heal ourselves. 🖤💛❤️

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]]> “The Reef is our nervous system. It’s made up of land, sea , sky, animals, and people… Once we destroy that nervous system, it’s critical damage for our body. Because we are all one." 🙌🏽 🌏 This week, Gooreng Gooreng man Malachi Johnson talks about how Indigenous ways of viewing the world can help us heal our relationship with the Reef, heal our relationship with each other, and ultimately, heal ourselves. 🖤💛❤️

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14616963 Mon, 04 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +1000 2939 1 5 full false S1 E4: Breaking: Coral bleaching at Heron Island with Dr Stuart Kininmonth S1 E4: Breaking: Coral bleaching at Heron Island with Dr Stuart Kininmonth The Marine Park Authority has confirmed severe coral bleaching is unfolding on the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef 🪸 So this week, we head to Heron Island to meet the island's chief scientist and see first-hand what's happening 🏝️.

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]]> The Marine Park Authority has confirmed severe coral bleaching is unfolding on the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef 🪸 So this week, we head to Heron Island to meet the island's chief scientist and see first-hand what's happening 🏝️.

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14565755 Sat, 24 Feb 2024 21:00:00 +1000 1698 1 4 full false S1 E3: Can Corals Survive Climate Change? With Dr Kate Quigley S1 E3: Can Corals Survive Climate Change? With Dr Kate Quigley What is the limit of coral resilience? To help us unpack this question, this week we're joined by Dr Kate Quigley, a molecular ecologist who has spent years studying corals up close 🪸. Lately, Kate has been selectively breeding corals to try and increase their heat tolerance 🫠 - a race against time as the Reef starts to show the first signs of coral bleaching for 2024.

Together, we break down the 2024 mass bleaching event, why some corals are more sensitive than others, what really happens when corals bleach, and how long they can hang on before it's too late. Most importantly, we discuss what you can do to help protect these underwater wonders.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or a curious listener, this episode will deepen your understanding of coral life—and what's at stake in a warming world.

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]]> What is the limit of coral resilience? To help us unpack this question, this week we're joined by Dr Kate Quigley, a molecular ecologist who has spent years studying corals up close 🪸. Lately, Kate has been selectively breeding corals to try and increase their heat tolerance 🫠 - a race against time as the Reef starts to show the first signs of coral bleaching for 2024.

Together, we break down the 2024 mass bleaching event, why some corals are more sensitive than others, what really happens when corals bleach, and how long they can hang on before it's too late. Most importantly, we discuss what you can do to help protect these underwater wonders.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or a curious listener, this episode will deepen your understanding of coral life—and what's at stake in a warming world.

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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14519866 Sat, 17 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +1000 1813 1 3 full false S1 E2: A Snorkel Tour on the Great Barrier Reef S1 E2: A Snorkel Tour on the Great Barrier Reef This week we're off on a snorkelling adventure to meet the curious creatures who built the Great Barrier Reef. 🪸 On this fun and immersive tour, learn which types of coral grow on the Reef, what it's made from, how it grows, what it eats, how it reproduces, what poses the biggest threat to its existence, and what we can all do to protect it!

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]]> This week we're off on a snorkelling adventure to meet the curious creatures who built the Great Barrier Reef. 🪸 On this fun and immersive tour, learn which types of coral grow on the Reef, what it's made from, how it grows, what it eats, how it reproduces, what poses the biggest threat to its existence, and what we can all do to protect it!

Support the show


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]]> Tanya Murphy Buzzsprout-14494040 Tue, 13 Feb 2024 21:00:00 +1000 1271 1 2 full false S1 E1: A Scenic Flight over the Great Barrier Reef! S1 E1: A Scenic Flight over the Great Barrier Reef! Meet our host and tour guide Tanya for a scenic flight over the world's largest Reef. ✈️  We'll spot some marine life 🐳 and learn about how the Reef was formed, its history, and some of the threats it is facing. You won’t believe what we’ll see along the way!

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]]> Meet our host and tour guide Tanya for a scenic flight over the world's largest Reef. ✈️  We'll spot some marine life 🐳 and learn about how the Reef was formed, its history, and some of the threats it is facing. You won’t believe what we’ll see along the way!

Support the show


Help Keep Word on the Reef Afloat!
Please take 2 minutes to fill out our Word on the Reef Listener Survey to help us apply for funding for the show!

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]]> Tanya Buzzsprout-14426200 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +1000 1019 1 1 full false