2025 Solomon Lecture

NOTE: This event is in-person and livestreamed. You DO NOT need to register to access the livestream. A link to the livestream will be available at oic.qld.gov.au/iaid2025

The annual Solomon Lecture is a signature event marking International Access to Information Day and this year the keynote will be delivered by Sheree Marris, a marine biologist, award-winning science communicator, and adjunct at James Cook University. She works at the intersection of research, policy and public engagement,  collaborating with scientists, governments, and conservation organisations to make environmental science accessible, actionable and engaging. Her work spans applied research, marine conservation campaigns and milti-media projects that bridge the gap between data, storytelling and public impact. 

International Access to Information Day (IAI Day) is celebrated around the world every year in September. It raises awareness of every individual's right of access to government-held information; and the public sector’s responsibility to release information if it is in the public interest to do so. The 2025 UNESCO appointed theme for IAI Day is ‘Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age'.

Sheree's keynote is titled, 'Reef of Truth: What Coral Can Teach Us About Power, Access and Action’.

In this thought-provoking Solomon Lecture, marine biologist and science communicator Sheree Marris explores the vital role of environmental information in shaping resilient ecosystems and informed societies. Using coral reefs as a powerful metaphor for connection, collaboration and fragility, she highlights how access to trusted, timely data can save not only species, but public trust. In an age of digital disinformation and ecological crisis, Marris makes the case that access to environmental information isn’t just a right, it’s our lifeline. Because healthy societies depend on healthy environments and ensuring access to environmental facts is key to creating a more prosperous, sustainable future for all.

The 2025 Solomon Lecture will be followed by a panel discussion. Journalist and media personality, Ms Madonna King, will emcee the event and moderate the panel featuring:

• Professor Brendan Mackey, Director of Griffith University's Climate Action Beacon

• Stephanie Winson, Right to Information Commissioner, Queensland

• Sheree Marris.

We look forward to welcoming you in-person or via the livestream.

NOTE: This event is in-person and livestreamed. You do not need to register to access the livestream. A link to the livestream will be available at oic.qld.gov.au/iaid2025