Twelve years since their last visit, the British & Irish Lions Tour has returned to Australia with all the intensity and spectacle fans hoped for. But beyond the field, the Lions and Wallabies have joined forces for something far bigger than rugby - protecting one of the world's most extraordinary ecosystems.
The Great Barrier Reef is more than Australia's natural wonder, it's a global icon, the world's largest living structure, a biodiversity hotspot and integral piece to our planet's health. But it's facing its toughest match yet.
As the official Global Charity Partner of the Tour, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation is harnessing the spotlight of international sport to drive action for coral reef restoration and protection.
Lions and Wallabies players swam with turtles and dolphins while experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Credit: Dan Sheridan | British Irish Lions.
#Why do coral reefs matter?
Coral reefs are the heart of our ocean. They support more than a quarter of all marine life and over a billion people worldwide rely on them for food, income and coastal protection. But these vital ecosystems are on the brink. Rising ocean temperatures, pollution and human pressures have already wiped out half the world's coral reefs — and without urgent action, the rest could vanish in our lifetime.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden said the partnership offers a powerful platform to inspire action: "This is an extraordinary opportunity to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and restore our coral reefs by connecting with rugby fans and the wider community. Together, we can inspire action and pioneer solutions to ensure a future for our coral reefs."
Wallabies player Liam Wright joined Lions players Josh van der Flier, Duhan van der Merwe and Henry Pollock on the Reef. Credit: Dan Sheridan | British Irish Lions.
#Rugby players growing a Reef legacy
In between gruelling games, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation had the opportunity to showcase the wonder of the Reef to players of both Lions and Wallabies at one of our flagship sites. Lady Elliot Island is a small coral cay at the southern tip of the Reef and home to the largest island habitat rehabilitation project in the Southern Hemisphere.
Since 2018, more than 10,000 native plants have been restored as part of the Reef Islands Initiative with Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. This project has transformed the island into a thriving refuge for nesting seabirds, turtles and more than 1,200 marine species.
Players joined restoration experts on the island to plant native species and learn firsthand what it takes to rebuild these vital landscapes. For Lions player, Henry Pollock, the experience left a lasting impression: "It was a special moment to be able to plant a tree and give back to the island."
Lions player, Josh van der Flier added, "It's a little piece of heaven to be here, to be honest. It's definitely something you wouldn't want to see go, and it's definitely a place worth trying to preserve at all costs."
Players planted trees contributing to the largest island habitat rehabilitation project in the Southern Hemisphere. Credit: Dan Sheridan | British Irish Lions.
#Join a movement bigger than the game
The Reef needs champions off the field too. Supporters around the world can join a global movement to protect coral reefs and leave a legacy of their own. And just like the Lions and Wallabies players, you could be headed to the Reef too.
Fundraise today for your chance to win the ultimate Reef experience. Each $100 you raise for the Great Barrier Reef goes in the draw to win a luxurious 3-night escape at the InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef. This incredible getaway is for four guests in a 2-bedroom suite, complete with daily breakfast and return transfers from Hamilton Island. For Rugby fans, there is also an epic prize of signed Wallabies and Lions jerseys.
Our Reef is facing its toughest match yet. But together, we can help turn the tide for coral reefs. Join the movement, fundraise for a global cause and have a chance at winning your own Reef adventure.
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