News & Stories
ReefTO is a Traditional Owner–led initiative connecting Reef Traditional Owners across the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.
We listen, share, and explore ways for communities to speak with a collective voice to protect, care for, and strengthen the health of Sea Country.
These stories highlight the people, culture, and communities shaping the Reef.
When County calls: two women, two journeys, one shared purpose.
As we celebrate NAIDOC Week and 50 Years of Deadly, discover the inspiring stories of ReefTO Taskforce Co-Chair, Manuwuri Forester, and Taskforce Member Dr Cass Hunter. Two First Nations women whose different journeys have led them to the same purpose: caring for Country and creating opportunities for future generations. Through quiet leadership, deep cultural connection and an unwavering commitment to truth-telling, trust and community, their stories remind us that some of the most powerful leaders are those who listen first. Read how their experiences continue to shape the future of Sea Country and inspire the next generation to answer when Country calls.
Sea Country Storytellers Wanted: ReefTO Opens Applications for Inaugural Voices of the Reef Ambassador Program
ReefTO, in partnership with Mob Made Media & Communications Agency, has launched its inaugural Voices of the Reef Ambassador Program, a hands-on digital storytelling initiative supporting Traditional Owners of the Great Barrier Reef to capture and share their stories, perspectives and knowledge of Sea Country.
Custodianship in action: Meet Meyalah
Our Regional Coordinator, Meyalah Blackman, a Gurang, Nywaigi and Munburra woman, carries her work for Country through every part of her life – as a mother, a daughter and a custodian for future generations. Her work caring for Country is not separate from her life – it is woven through it.
Meet Mal: A leader anchored in Country, family and responsibility
Twelve months ago, the ReefTO Alliance was an idea. Today, mob are shaping its direction across the Great Barrier Reef. Director of Programs & Engagement Mal Mann reflects on the shift he’s seeing – stronger voices, deeper engagement, real momentum – and why the Regional Dialogues matter for the work ahead.
Sea Country Forum marks one year of momentum toward collective voice
It has been one year since more than 160 Traditional Owners came together on Gimuy Country for the first Sea Country Forum in over two decades – an historical gathering that continues to shape the future of Reef governance.
Held in March 2025, the Forum created space for Traditional Owners from across the Great Barrier Reef to come together, share knowledge and set priorities for caring for Sea Country. One year on, that momentum has not slowed.
ReefYARNS: Webinar Series
ReefTO is launching ReefYARNS – a webinar series creating space for Reef Traditional Owners to yarn, learn and stay connected, as conversations continue about a possible ReefTO Sea Country Alliance.
ReefYARNS sessions will share updates, explore key topics, and provide time for questions (via Q&A chat), supporting mob to stay informed and involved as we move toward collective decision‑making.
Give to Gain – International Women’s Day with Meyalah Blackman
Friday 6 March, 2026
For International Women’s Day 2026, we sat down with ReefTO Regional Coordinator Meyalah Blackman about the strength, responsibility, and continuity that First Nations women carry across generations, and how giving — of knowledge, care, and effort — creates lasting connections and mutual benefit in communities.
ReefTO Appoints First Youth Leaders to Shape the Future of Sea Country
Tuesday 17 February, 2026
ReefTO has launched its inaugural Reef Youth Circle, appointing three young Reef Traditional Owners to help lead decisions about Sea Country. The initiative delivers on a commitment made at the 2025 Sea Country Forum and reflects ReefTO’s focus on youth leadership and self‑determination.
More voices from the Reef
Across the Great Barrier Reef region, people are sharing stories about culture, Country, and community.