Inspiring the Next Generation at Ocean Lovers Festival
As students entered the space, the curtains were drawn to create a calm, darkened environment. Before any introductions, the room settled into stillness as The Reserve by young filmmaker and COO team member Lara Gribbin gently came to life on screen.
It was an immersive experience. The children were taken underwater, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Cabbage Tree Bay—its marine life, its movement, and the stories of people who care deeply for its protection. In a day filled with activity and transitions, this became their own quiet moment to arrive, to absorb, and to connect.
Across our sessions, we engaged around 200 curious young minds. Following the film, students took part in a live Q&A with Lara, before moving into an interactive mini session led by Pia Dorer, one of COO Co-creators. Children explored the importance of our oceans—from a global and national perspective through to the local places they know and love.
The session unpacked the vital role sanctuary zones play in protecting marine ecosystems, and how ocean health supports life both below the surface and above it. What stood out most was the energy and curiosity in the room. The questions were thoughtful, considered, and full of genuine interest—from ocean conservation and marine protection through to Lara’s journey as a young ocean filmmaker.
This event also marked an exciting evolution for FoBBB’s program. While Custodians of the Ocean was traditionally delivered as a year-long, in-school experience, the Ocean Lovers Festival gave us the opportunity to introduce a short, high-impact format—designed for festivals and community events.
Friends of Bongin Bongin Bay President, Greg Pride, commented “These mini sessions allow us to extend our reach, meeting students where they are and sparking awareness, connection and action in new environments—while continuing to build deeper knowledge and engagement through our core program.”
We also had the opportunity to sit in on some of other sessions throughout the day, and the quality of these was outstanding.
We especially loved the Fizzics Education interactive science workshop, along with the incredible VR experience by Float. The Float technology allows people to safely simulate being caught in a rip or strong current—helping build awareness, reduce panic, and ultimately support safer responses in the water. It’s powerful, practical and so needed. Huge kudos to the teams behind this work—an amazing use of innovation to help save lives.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Ocean Lovers Festival team for recognising the value of FoBBB’s work and including us in such a meaningful event.
