Ocean Lovers Festival 2026 TALKS | Indigenous Ways of Knowing the Ocean

OCEAN LOVERS FESTIVAL TALKS PROGRAM | Indigenous Ways of Knowing the Ocean

For tens of thousands of years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have cared for Sea Country; the ocean, coasts, islands and waterways that sustain life, culture and community. These living knowledge systems continue to guide how Sea Country is understood, protected and passed on. This segment brings together saltwater Indigenous voices to share perspectives on Sea Country practices, cultural responsibility and deep connection to ocean and coast. Through story, experience and reflection, our speakers explore what caring for Sea Country means today, and what it can teach all of us about respect, reciprocity and living well with the ocean.

Host: Dr Mitch Gibbs

Fireside Chat 1: Dr Jodi Edwards

Fireside Chat 2: Saltwater Detective, Frederick Lefoe

Fireside Chat 3: Gauri Salunkhe

WHEN: 10 am, Sunday 22 March, 2026

WHERE: High Tide Room, Bondi Pavilion

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.