Reef Protection Volunteer Trip to Great Barrier Reef

Join community volunteers from Order of the Undersea Coral Heroes (OUCH) for an underwater search mission for protected zone mooring sites and help support OUCH’s conservation and education efforts. The Reef Protection Program includes a “treasure hunt” search and location marking of reef protection marker buoys, in support of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Parks Authority. The Reef Protection Program has virtually stopped anchor damage at popular dive sites and has been successfully extended to other parts of the Great Barrier Reef.

The beautiful Whitsunday Islands is one of the most visited spots on the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Learn how the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and different interest groups manage and share this beautiful natural heritage.

OUCH is the most active community volunteer group in Northern Queensland when it comes to working to protect the Great Barrier Reef. OUCH is a hands-on organization with a number of ongoing projects, including the reef protection program, mangrove watch, seagrass watch, coral reef monitoring, and numerous education programs for visitors and reef operators. Most recently, OUCH received a significant grant to map the habitat of all marine endangered species in the Whitsunday region.

Day 1/ Tuesday:
Afternoon transfer from Proserpine Airport to a boutique dive resort in the Whitsundays called the Boathaven. Enjoy a free evening in the lively Airlie Beach.

Day 2/ Wednesday:
In the morning you will meet Tony Fontes, tireless champion of marine conservation and founder of OUCH. Tony will give you unique behind-the-scenes insight into Great Barrier Reef management policies. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Airlie, followed by a dinner with DiVo Dive Voluntourism and OUCH.

Day 3/ Thursday:
Enjoy a full day diving with OUCH on a search and rescue mission for GBR moorings, a community task that OUCH has supported the GBR marine park authorities with for many years. Afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Day 4/ Friday:
Transfer by coach to Prosperpine Airport for your onward flight.