Researchers at work underwater at Lizard Island. Image courtesy Australian Museum
Lizard Island Reef Research Foundation (LIRRF) supports scientific research, infrastructure and education conducted at Australia Museum’s Lizard Island Research Station, embedded on Queensland’s World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.
Lizard Island Reef Research Station is considered a world-leading supplier of on-reef research and education facilities essential to the understanding, protection, preservation and restoration of the Reef upon which it is sited, the wellbeing of which is intrinsically connected to the health and wellbeing of nearby oceans and the greater planet as a whole.
Lizard Island Reef Research Foundation’s important work aims to support, generate awareness and communicate vital scientific information about the Barrier Reef and the work done at LIRRF.
The foundation’s funding supports fellowships, research grants & facilities, and education, all coordinated from the research station’s remote island base. Coral reef study tours for Year 11 biology students are also offered, to inspire and invest in future marine scientists.
The Lizard Island research facility enables direct and ongoing study access to the Reef for visiting researchers through a range of essential supports including accommodation, seacraft, marine science equipment and resources and expert on-site staff.
The environmental stakes have never been higher for LIRRF and the research station to continue making these major contributions to coral reef research while inspiring the Australian public about environmental science.
As an avid diver, Coolaroo Foundation Chair Janie Forrest is deeply aware of the fragility of marine environments and their importance to the welfare of our planet and has been a dedicated supporter of LIRRF for some years.
Coolaroo Foundation is proud to continue supporting these programs of vital marine science initiatives.
“In a rapidly changing environment, it’s become increasingly critical to understand the stresses our reef ecosystems are undergoing, gauge how they’re reacting, manage pressures and protect what we have”
