Blue Holes

If ocean temperatures around the world rise to 2C as predicted, many of the world’s reefs may be lost to coral bleaching. There is a growing belief that small pockets of structural complexity and unique geological characteristics may provide a refugia for resilience protecting biodiversity . Higher diversity increases the chances of having more heat tolerant corals at a place on the reef. With an increase in disturbance pressure, highly biodiverse spots are becoming more scarce, but more important. These protected havens or “refuges” are the coral banks of the modern day reef, and are the key to rebuilding the Great Barrier Reef in times of stress. The team set out on a mission to find and document areas of high biodiversity in remote locations as they may be important refuges of coral that could be the key to rebuilding reefs that continue to degrade.

Our documentary is dedicated to uncovering and raising awareness of the GBR’s relatively unknown regions of high complexity, highlighting the ecological significance and capacity to re-populate surrounding reefs. By showcasing these discoveries to the audience, through compelling human stories of devoted individuals, we aim to inspire viewers to want to continue protect the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem as a whole.

‘Blue Holes’ aspires to re-engage audiences with the GBR’s by presenting an optimistic, adventure-filled film that showcases hope and natural resilience. We also aspire to bring exposure and give a platform to Torres Strait communities, especially the Murray Island community, so that audiences can better understand the critical relationship with the ocean that island communities around the world depend upon.

Through showcasing awe-inspiring natural beauty, diverse habitats, ancient seafaring cultures and passionate human stories, we aim to inspire viewers to want to protect the worlds largest reef.

1. Short-term outcomes: partner with organisations and philanthropists to fund and produce a 90 minute documentary that boosts awareness of the GBR’s resilience areas & their ecological significance; amplify public understanding of the reef and Torres Strait communities’ challenges.

2. Medium-term: Augment support for GBR preservation and Torres Strait community organisations ; incorporate the documentary into school curricula; promote sustainable tourism in the Torres Strait Islands.

3. Long-term: Inspire viewer connection to the GBR & Torres Strait ecosystems to cultivate more environmentally active Australians.

4. End-goal: Contribute to sustaining the Torres Strait way of life and inspire the initiation initiatives that support high resilience areas of the worlds largest reef.

The Marine Science Community of QLD and Torres Strait Island Communities.

Our access to the marine science community was through our protagonist, Johnny Gaskell, the brother of Sam (director). Johnny has lead many expeditions likeminded passionate scientist and by 2018, Johnny had already garnered international recognition through his search for blue holes and unique areas of resilience building a reputation for discovery.

Johnny and Sam had been eager to create a blue holes doco and combine their passions for ocean and culture for several years, and they recognised the opportunity to achieve both when blue holes near Murray Island in the Torres Straits surfaced on satellite Maps. We went into development from there, and the team has been able to conduct all needed critical research and logistics preparation whilst building a team of characters to share the screen.

Through our second protagonist, Quinn Passi, we’ve received the rare invitation to document the Murray Island seafaring culture and explore its surrounding blue holes.

1. Educate the audience about the Great Barrier Reef’s challenges and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
2. Support marine conservation organisations through knowledge sharing helping them further their efforts to protect the reef.
3. Engage with Indigenous communities and support their initiatives related to land and sea management, recognising their cultural connections and stewardship of the GBR.
4. Share the documentary on social media to raise awareness and spark conversations about the importance of protecting the reef and addressing climate change.
5. Encourage responsible eco-tourism and consumerism, supporting businesses that prioritise sustainable practices and contribute to reef conservation.
6. Organise and host community screenings of the film to engage and inspire hope.