On behalf of the Great Barrier Reef, Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) has partnered with Expedia® in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia to introduce ‘Guardian of the Reef’, a new, world-first platform promoting reef-positive travel choices that reward travellers for learning about the Great Barrier Reef.
Conservation curious travellers can visit the newly launched website and work through a series of short educational videos and fast, each with a coupon reward system to use with Expedia bookings on the Great Barrier Reef. Participants then reach the ‘ocean floor’ where they can go in the draw to win a trip to the Great Barrier Reef and unlock exclusive experiences. These include staying at Australia’s first underwater accommodation, Reefstay with Cruise Whitsundays, to join a Master Reef Guide for a private guided Snorkel Safari.
Developed in consultation with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority), Guardian of the Reef blends science and environmental education with Indigenous wisdom and sustainable products, to help travellers learn more about the health of the Great Barrier Reef and conservation initiatives.
Becoming a Guardian of the Reef means you’re not just a traveller, but a champion for our oceans who:
- Supports local sustainable business
- Appreciates cultural significance
- Treats the Reef with respect
- Understands the issues.
The program stays with the customer from planning to travelling and continues after their visit to ensure they are an active part of its conservation. The Great Barrier Reef is home to 142 eco-certified operators, the highest number in Australia, making up 30% of Ecotourism Australia’s eco-certified operators. The Guardian of the Reef platform will link travellers with operators certified through Ecotourism Australia, EarthCheck or the Zoo and Aquarium Association.
This Tourism Tropical North Queensland project received grant funding from the Australian Government under the International Tourism Recovery Program administered by Austrade.
