It was fantastic to meet with the students from Moreton Bay College and hear firsthand just how excited they were to experience the Great Barrier Reef.
Around 100 students have travelled more than 1,500 kilometres to Far North Queensland, and their enthusiasm was unmistakable. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and you could see that in their energy, curiosity, and eagerness to get out on the water. Speaking with them before they headed out, it was clear they were over the moon about being in Cairns and getting to experience this unique opportunity.
This visit is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Great Barrier Reef Education Experience Program, which is all about taking learning beyond the classroom and into the real world.
For these students, the Reef becomes a living classroom. Swapping desks for snorkels, they gain hands-on experience exploring marine ecosystems, building their understanding of climate challenges, and learning what it means to protect such a unique environment.
It’s one thing to read about the Reef but it’s something else entirely to see it up close, to experience its scale, and to understand why it
The program has been backed by a $2.4 million funding extension through to 2029, ensuring more students can take part in this unique experience.
It also supports local jobs and businesses across Far North Queensland. School visits provide valuable, year-round support to tourism operators, accommodation providers, and attractions.
Operators like Fitzroy Island Adventures and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures benefit directly from these programs, helping sustain local employment and strengthen the regional economy.
The program continues to grow, with strong interest from schools right across Queensland. In 2025 alone, 174 school groups and more than 6,600 students participated.
Looking ahead, 99 school groups, representing more than 4,500 students, are already approved for 2026, with access also expanded to include home-educated students.
By experiencing the Reef firsthand, students develop a deeper appreciation of its beauty and its importance. These are the moments that shape perspectives, helping young people understand not just what the Reef is, but why it must be protected.
Meeting these students and seeing their excitement reinforced exactly why this program matters.
