OCEAN LOVERS FESTIVAL | Ellison. The Reef That Saved Them All, screened with Saltwater Detectives

Ellison. The Reef That Saved Them All is a powerful short film about the reef that sparked Australia’s modern ocean conservation movement. Sixty years after the original fight that saved it from being mined, Ellison Reef once again becomes a touchstone for what’s at stake as climate change accelerates. More than a historical record, this film is a rallying story of science, culture and community at the heart of today’s reef protection efforts.

By linking past action with present-day challenges, it inspires a new generation of reef defenders and reminds Australians that the Fight for the Reef is the fight for all reefs.

Hosted by the Ocean Lovers Festival and presented by AMCS, the world premiere of this short film blends science, art, culture and underwater storytelling to reflect on the legacy of the original Fight for the Reef campaign and the urgency driving today’s efforts.

A post screening panel of campaigners, scientists, Mandubarra Sea Country rangers and filmmakers will explore the cultural significance of Ellison Reef, the findings of the resurvey and the growing movement calling for bold action to protect all reefs.

Return to Ellison Reef is both a tribute and a call to action, reminding us that hope is strengthened through evidence, community and care for Sea Country.

This film is screened alongside Saltwater Detectives, episode one of a brand new marine detective web series which follows extraordinary science and traditional knowledge collaborations on the Great Barrier Reef. You then have the opportunity to hear from a next generation Gunggandji traditional owner, Frederick Lefoe who is joined by his dive buddy, Emmy award winning cinematographer & marine biologist Richard Fitzpatrick to introduce the film.

Tickets are limited.

WHEN:

6.00 pm - 9:30 pm Friday 20 March, 2026 - sold out screening with drinks and networking pre and post screening

2.00pm -3.00pm Saturday 21 March, 2026 - extra screening due to popular demand

WHERE: Bondi Pavilion

image: Harriet Spark

Help Us Improve Ocean Lovers Festival

As part of Ocean Lovers Festival, we invite attendees to complete a short survey following selected events. Your feedback helps us understand the impact of the festival, improve future programming, and demonstrate the value of community-led ocean education and conservation initiatives. All responses are anonymous and take less than two minutes to complete. Thank you for helping us continue to grow this movement for our ocean.

The Ocean Lovers Festival is Australia's largest Cultural and Science Celebration for the Ocean. It is an annual celebration of discovery, action and fun, showcasing some of the latest innovations, science, state-of-the-art technology and cool ideas for helping the ocean. Be inspired and entertained with art, music, food, talks, stalls, workshops and more. Visit our website for more information.

Contact the host of Ocean Lovers Festival 2026 | RETURN TO ELLISON REEF FILM PREMIERE