White Rock: Ocean Research Climate Action (ORCA) Launch
18:00 - 19:45, Thu 17 July, The Capitol, Melbourne CBD | VIC
Join RMIT University and Ocean Research Climate Action (ORCA) for the launch of Ocean Research Climate Action (ORCA)—a bold new network reimagining our relationship with the ocean to drive climate action. ORCA unites leaders in art, design, culture, geography, education, and urban research to ignite creative research and civic action for regenerative futures.
The launch will feature 'White Rock', a powerful new documentary exposing a hidden crisis in Australian waters: the longspined sea urchins’ destruction of the Great Southern Reef. Blending science, policy, and sustainable seafood, ‘White Rock’ shows how we can protect Australia’s reefs, offering a rare, immersive view into underwater worlds we all depend on, but few ever see.
Following the screening, stick around for a panel discussion moderated by ORCA co-founder Dr Rebecca Olive, featuring Yaraan Bundle Couzens, leader of the Southern Ocean Protection Embassy Collective (SOPEC) and Gunditjmara First Nations Ocean defender; Stefan Andrews, producer and editor of White Rock from the Great Southern Reef Foundation—a marine biologist, filmmaker, and Ocean Literacy advocate known for his underwater cinematography and compelling storytelling that translates complex marine research into engaging, educational narratives; and Cátia Freitas from Deakin University’s Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, whose research explores deeper human-ocean connections.
Presented by RMIT University and Ocean Research Climate Action (ORCA), supported by Environmental Films Australia.
Tickets $10