S2 E9: Catching Air, Calling for Action: A Tour Operator's Plea to Save the Great Barrier Reef

Word on the Reef

Brett Wright has spent the past 30 years taking visitors to the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas with his tour company Windswell Adventures—and he's seen the changes up close. From worsening coral bleaching to the devastation of extreme weather events, climate change is no longer a distant threat, but a reality affecting his livelihood and the Reef he loves. Brett shares a heartfelt call for stronger climate leadership, while reminding us that the Reef is still alive, breathtaking, and worth fighting for.

Also in this episode: How do we talk to others about climate change in a way that inspires, not alienates? Zef Aster, Outreach Campaigner and long-time volunteer with the Australian Marine Conservation Society, shares practical tips for starting meaningful conversations and creating real community impact.
Join diver and conservationist Tanya Murphy and marine educator Brett Goodban as we explore marine science on the Great Barrier Reef and beyond!

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Chapters

1. S2 E9: Catching Air, Calling for Action: A Tour Operator's Plea to Save the Great Barrier Reef (00:00:00)

2. Preferential Voting with Marine Animals (00:00:54)

3. Why this election is so critical for our Reef (00:02:04)

4. Introducing our First Guest, Zef Aster, and the "Fight for our Reef" Campaign (00:02:58)

5. Introducing second guest, Brett Wright, Owner-Operator, Windswell Adventures (00:19:14)

6. Kite surfing and paddle boarding stories (00:19:50)

7. What changes have you seen on the Reef, particularly with regards to climate change? (00:24:51)

8. Impacts of Cyclone Jasper and the December 2023 Flood Event (00:27:37)

9. How important is it for people to continue visiting the Reef and seeing the beauty it still has to offer? (00:31:40)

10. Actions to Protect the Reef, Improve Mental Health & Inspire your Kids (00:33:34)

11. Most common questions tourists ask about the Reef (00:36:06)

12. What's the risk to the Reef if we don't strengthen climate action? (00:36:56)

13. Advice for Voters (00:39:15)