| ACA update 05 Oct 17: Good Reef!

WITH Jill Abel, CEO, Australian Cruise Association – Welcome news that our recent ACA conference looks like it has produced an exciting new partnership. Capt. Wel. Gamble from Australian Reef Pilots (ARP) reports that he has been in discussion with Anna Marsden, md of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation (GBRF) further to her presentation to delegates on the importance of this natural icon, the challenges it faces & the innovative work being done to save it.

ARP already plays an important role educating cruise ship pax on the Reef. Their 12 pilots will be on board around 140 cruise ships this year guiding them through these critically important conservation areas.

Not only do they play an important role as pilots, they are also invited to be lecturers on the environment of the waters through which the ships are cruising. Capt. Gamble is excited to be discussing a partnership with the GBRF whereby they can access up to date information, videos and photographs to include in their presentations.

He reports that there is a high level of interest from passengers who have heard about the perilous state of the Reef and are keen to know what information is accurate and how they can help.

With the GBRF as a resource, he is excited that their level of knowledge will be enhanced and they can take a message of hope to passengers around the research currently being undertaken.

Talks are currently progressing between the two groups & we look forward to hearing further progress on this exciting partnership.