Gladstone - Marine Cloud Brightening Roadshow

As climate change continues to place unprecedented pressure on the Great Barrier Reef, new ideas, open conversations and shared knowledge are more important than ever.

Southern Cross University’s world-leading Marine Cloud Brightening program is pioneering a new way to help coral reefs withstand a warming climate.

The Marine Cloud Brightening technology is being trialled on the Great Barrier Reef to test whether low-lying marine clouds can be brightened so they reflect more sunlight away from the ocean surface. This innovative technique builds on a natural process by spraying a fine mist of seawater into the air using specialised cannons.

Southern Cross University’s research is focused on understanding whether this approach could help reduce sea surface temperatures over critical coral habitats during periods of extreme heat, while also examining the risks, uncertainties, governance requirements and environmental safeguards that must be considered.

What to expect

A community information experience designed to share the science behind research into potential cooling and shading approaches for the Great Barrier Reef. 

This self-guided event invites visitors to explore interactive displays, ask questions, speak directly with scientists and contribute to an open conversation about emerging reef intervention research, risks, governance and future reef resilience.

The event is designed for a broad audience, including government representatives, local councils, industry, environmental organisations, Traditional Owners, community groups, educators, students and members of the public interested in the future of the Great Barrier Reef.

Light refreshments will be provided.