Step into the story of reef stewardship where it all began.

As part of National Science Week 2025, we invite you to Reconnecting with the Birthplace of Reef Stewardship — a unique celebration of citizen science, community, and conservation history, set in the very place where modern reef stewardship was born.

This multi-day event will take place across Mission Beach, the iconic Ellison Reef, and the historic Ninney Rise House, where pioneering conservationists laid the foundations for protecting the Great Barrier Reef in the late 1960s.

Join scientists, traditional owners, students, locals, and tourists for hands-on citizen science activities including reef monitoring, coral surveys, and marine life observations at Ellison Reef. 

Reef stewardship and citizen science conference held at Ninney Rise Historic House. This conference will feature talks and panels from leading marine scientists, conservationists, and local knowledge holders. Discover how reef stewardship began here in 1967, and explore the powerful role citizen science plays in shaping the reef’s future.

This is a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of reef pioneers, connect with country, and play a role in the next chapter of reef conservation.