On April 22, 2024, in celebration of Earth Day, the R.O.L.E. Foundation and Bali Blue Harmony once again collaborated to restore the coral reefs of Nusa Dua. Sponsored by the Australian Consulate-General Bali, this initiative saw the successful restoration of seven Reef Stars with 105 coral fragments.
The event brought together a diverse group of 40 participants, including staff from the R.O.L.E. Foundation, Bali Blue Harmony, and the Australian Consulate General. Friends and family of the Australian Consulate General staff, totaling five people, joined the efforts, along with 15 students from Bali WISE and representatives from Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan Penyuluhan Perikanan.
The day began with a warm welcome and opening by Kezia Sitompul, the environmental and marine educator of the R.O.L.E. Foundation, who also served as the master of ceremonies. Following Kezia’s introduction, Miss Fena Evans, Executive Director of the R.O.L.E. Foundation, delivered her opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of the event and its role in promoting environmental conservation.
Amelia Ekkel, the Australian Consul for Economics, Politics, and Public Diplomacy, then took the stage. She elaborated on why the Australian Embassy supports coral restoration efforts, highlighting the embassy’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the value of international partnerships in tackling global ecological challenges.
Following Amelia’s address, Pariama Hutasoit, Chairwoman of Bali Blue Harmony, gave her opening remarks, reinforcing the importance of the day’s activities and the collective effort in coral restoration. Pariama then provided an insightful explanation of the Reef Star method, guiding participants on how to securely attach the coral fragments to the Reef Stars. Her detailed instructions ensured that everyone was well-prepared for the hands-on activity.
One of the most important aspects of the event was the involvement of 15 students from Bali WISE. This initiative aimed to not only engage them in practical conservation work but also to deepen their understanding of the coral reefs’ importance. Although the students are studying hospitality and digital marketing, the event underscored the crucial connection between tourism and marine health. By participating in coral restoration, the students were able to see firsthand how a thriving coral reef supports the broader ecosystem, including the tourism industry in Bali that heavily relies on these vibrant marine environments.
Participants then engaged in tying the coral fragments to the Reef Stars. The Bali Blue Harmony team continued the restoration by installing the Reef Stars, while some participants assisted with the installation and others enjoyed snorkeling around the coral garden area.
This Earth Day coral restoration event was a meaningful demonstration of community and international collaboration, contributing significantly to the environmental health of Nusa Dua and reinforcing the importance of coral conservation.
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