Join us in Airlie Beach for a free community screening of Ellison: The Reef That Saved Them All.

This powerful short film tells the story of the reef that sparked Australia’s modern ocean conservation movement, and what it means for the places we love today.

Why this story matters

Ellison Reef lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, but its protection was never guaranteed.

In 1967, a mining company applied to dredge the reef for coral rubble and sand. A small group of citizen scientists proved the reef was alive and worth saving, helping stop the proposal and spark a national movement.

That effort helped lead to the creation of the Australian Marine Conservation Society and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Ellison Reef became known as the reef that saved all reefs.

Now, sixty years on, a new generation of scientists, Traditional Owners and reef stewards have returned to Ellison Reef to repeat the original survey.

This film captures that moment, bringing together science, culture and community to reflect on what’s at stake for reefs today.

What to Expect

🎬 A community screening of Ellison: The Reef That Saved Them All

🎙 A live discussion and Q&A with people connected to the Reef

🤝 A chance to connect with others who care about the ocean

A night to connect

This is a chance to come together with your local community, spend time with people who care about the Reef, and reflect on its past, present and future.

Details

🗓 Date: 16 May 2026

📍 Location: Reef Gateway Hotel, 38 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD 4802

🎟 Tickets: Free, registration required

Can’t make it?

You can still learn more about the film and stay connected here

P.S. We’re also offering the chance to win a piece of Ellison Reef artwork by renowned marine artist Roger Swainston. You can enter here

P.P.S. There’s also an education pack available for those wanting to explore the story further. It’s designed for educators across Australia, with flexible lesson content aligned to the Australian Curriculum (Years 2–10). You can download it here

All images credit to Harriet Spark

Contact the host of Ellison: The Reef That Saved Them All | Airlie Beach Community Screening