Written by Emily – Local Tour Expert at The Daintree Shop
138 collected, 277 to go!
Welcome to “The most precious collection on Earth”
About the Forever Reef Project
The Forever project is located at the Port Douglas Crystalbrook Marina. The project aims to preserve coral biodiversity. The purpose is to collect living specimens to preserve in a ‘coral ark’.
The window of opportunity is narrowing however, with more frequent coral-bleaching events and rapid changes in the ocean. With education and studies of these coral samples, scientist can prepare for a more resilient future on our reefs.
“Without question, this is the most important project we can be undertaking for corals and coral reefs”
You may have heard of The Svalbard Global Seed Vault – preserving the largest collection of seeds for biodiversity and food security, the biobank acts as an insurance policy against the loss of seeds caused by natural disasters, disease, war, mismanagement etc.
Why couldn’t we do the same with all the coral species from around the world which are in decline due to natural disasters, warming sea temperatures, commercial activity, overfishing and bleaching? One team had an idea, which turned into a vision and now is a living breathing reality!
When I heard the team at Great Barrier Reef Legacy had a dream to create a living coral biobank, I knew it was an ambitious project but would come with great rewards. And, if anyone could do it, these guys can! The dedication this team has showed to ensure the future of the Great Barrier Reef is unrivalled.
My Forever Reef Project Tour Experience
Walking into the facility, the illuminated lights and humming of pumps immediately springs your senses into curiosity.
Quotes from distinguished Marine Biologists are presented around the room and a plaque dedicated to John Rumney… you know you’re somewhere special!
The tour starts with a captivating presentation from one of the dedicated GBRL crew. Their passion and knowledge of the reef is immediately inspiring, giving you goosebumps as they run through fascinating facts and figures.
There are some confronting statistics, but such a positive spin from the project is uplifting. You really get a sense of the vision these guys have, and it just makes you want to be a part of it!
Then, the part everyone is waiting for…
We’re taken over the tanks. Issac, head Aquarist shares his incredible expertise of aquarium keeping as well as showing us around the coral fragments. Everything from the collection and selection process is explained.
Having been a scuba diver, and a home – marine – aquarium enthusiast – this blew my mind! I don’t want to give too much away!
To see living corals up that close and have an insight into their hidden lives is unforgettable. Luckily there is plenty of time for questions!
What’s next for the Forever Reef Project?
The team at Great Barrier Reef Legacy are set to collect the remaining coral species for the Biobank. Their knowledge and concepts are set to spread all the way along the East Coast of Queensland and anywhere in the world where Coral Reefs grow. Specific regions can then collect their own species and build resilient corals for that specific area. Eventually there is hope that these corals can be returned to the reef system to ensure the survival of the reefs in the future.
What can you do to help the Forever Reef Project?
Book your Forever Reef Project Tour to visit the facility, share your experience with friends, donate to the project or Adopt a Coral. Keep track of your own personal coral and receive progress updates! Imagine having a personal connection to the Great Barrier Reef — a living, growing coral colony that you help protect and nurture!
A special thank you to the team
A huge Thank You to Dr Charlie Veron “the godfather of Coral” still diving at 80 years! Responsible for identifying 20% of the worlds known Coral species and critical for the coral collection process.
Dr Dean Miller, an advocate for the Great Barrier Reef, scientist and visionary who continues to work with local community, traditional owners and institutes around the world sharing his wisdom.
John Rumney, ecotourism pioneer, reef expert and founder of Great Barrier Reef Legacy – John, you inspired me, and taught me so much, your legacy lives on and you’ll never be forgotten. John devoted his life to ‘ensuring the Great Barrier Reef remains the world’s greatest coral reef system for generations to come”… we won’t let you down John!
A few pics of Emily’s Forever Reef Project Tour
