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End of summer snapshot reveals varied pressures for the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef has been impacted in parts by coral bleaching, cyclone damage and flooding over summer – but many reefs remain in good condition with teams on the water to protect and survey the living wonder.
The Reef snapshot: Summer 2025-26, published yesterday, shows pressures included prolonged heat exposure, cyclones and flood plumes across parts of the Marine Park, particularly in the Northern and Far Northern regions.
In response, scientists, tourism operators, Traditional Owners and Reef managers are surveying impacted reefs, protecting high-value sites and supporting recovery, with the full extent of impacts still being assessed.
Sea Country Connections
Strengthening cultural capability
During National Reconciliation Week 2026, the Reef Authority will reflect on the progress made through our two-year Reconciliation Action Plan. As we approach the completion of this important project, we remain focused on delivering meaningful outcomes and strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. One recent milestone saw more than 150 staff across two locations participate in Cultural Awareness training. View our RAP below.
Council and students unite for the Reef
Bundaberg Regional Council, one of 21 Reef Guardian Councils between K’gari and Cape York, recently supported 10 local schools to engage in an unforgettable learning experience at Lady Musgrave Island. Students swapped desks for flippers, diving into "marine biologist for a day” experiences. The collaboration brought our Reef Guardian programs together, giving students a front-row seat to the wonders of the Reef.
Reef Ranger reduces emissions
Protecting the Reef requires constant work on the water. Through the Reef Joint Field Management Program, the Australian and Queensland governments are reducing the environmental footprint of their fleet. More efficient engines, slower vessel speeds, innovative vessel design and carbon offsets are helping cut emissions while maintaining vital conservation and surveillance.
From fragments to flourishing corals
Marine biologists at the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium have achieved remarkable results transforming tiny coral fragments into thriving colonies, through meticulous daily care and using expert coral propagation techniques. The propagation of Duncan coral (inset) and other coral species will continue, to ensure the range of living exhibits on display in the redeveloped Aquarium will educate and inspire visitors for generations to come.
Science in action: Meet Rohana
Rohana Rogan-Darvill’s story is testament to the fact that some of the most important science doesn’t always happen in a lab. With a Masters of Science in Fisheries Biology and Management and years of experience in technical roles, she has a strong scientific background. But it’s the real-world application of that science that drives her. “I love being in that centrepiece between science and other people,” she said.
Reef survey checks cyclone damage
A Reef survey voyage recently headed from Cairns to Thursday Island to check the impact of Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle on the far northern Great Barrier Reef. Reef Authority Chief Scientist Dr Roger Beeden said the voyage was delivering the first true picture of cyclone damage in the water. “These voyages are critical. They turn modelling into hard evidence and help direct our response where it is needed most,” Dr Beeden said.
Collaboration in planning
Continuing our work developing the Southern Plan of Management, through assessment of values, threats and uses within the new Planning Area, Traditional Owner partners (Yuwi, Darumbal, Woppaburra and Port Curtis Coral Coast), Reef Authority and QPWS&P staff met for a number of On-Country workshops to refine draft management strategies protecting natural and cultural values and ensuring sustainable use into the future.
Hooking Reds on the Reef
Join Dylan Schulz from Reel Destinations as we head back out onto the Great Barrier Reef for Episode 2 of this epic fishing adventure. This time, we dive deeper into reef fishing techniques, spearfishing, and how to fish responsibly while protecting one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems. Whether you're chasing coral trout, red emperor, or mixing it up with species like red throat emperor, this is all about fishing smarter for the future.
Calling creatives: residency opportunity
The Reef Authority is participating in the Australian World Heritage Residency from Creative Australia. This residency offers $50,000 for Australian artists or collectives to work on-site at a World Heritage site within Australia, concluding in a public reflection of their learning, such as a seminar, workshop, or new creative work. Applications for the program close 12 May.
#LovetheReef highlights
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority acknowledges the continuing Sea Country management and custodianship of the Great Barrier Reef by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners whose rich cultures, heritage values, enduring connections and shared efforts protect the Reef for future generations.
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