White Rock at Nora’s: Exploring Ocean Restoration Through Food, Film and Conversation
White Rock at Nora’s was an Ocean Thinkers community event that brought together food, film, science and storytelling to explore one of Australia’s emerging marine restoration challenges: the decline of kelp forests and the spread of long-spined sea urchin barrens across the Great Southern Reef.
The event centred around a screening of White Rock by the Great Southern Reef Foundation, a documentary examining how marine science, sustainable fisheries, policy and community action can contribute to the recovery of underwater ecosystems. The film also highlights the importance of Indigenous Sea Country leadership and the role Traditional Owners continue to play in caring for marine environments.
An urchin-inspired menu developed by Nora's provided an opportunity for participants to consider the relationship between food systems and environmental restoration. By exploring how marine species can move between ecological challenge and resource opportunity, the event encouraged new ways of thinking about conservation and sustainability.
Panel discussions with scientists, conservation leaders and indigenous leaders created space for shared learning and conversation, demonstrating how environmental issues can be explored through multiple perspectives - story telling, scientific, cultural, creative and community-based.
The project reflects a broader understanding that caring for oceans requires many forms of knowledge. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have maintained deep connections with Sea Country for tens of thousands of years, holding knowledge systems based on observation, seasonal understanding, stewardship and intergenerational learning. These perspectives continue to contribute to conversations about how Australians care for marine environments today.
White Rock at Nora’s demonstrated how collective experiences, sharing a meal, watching a story unfold and participating in conversation can build understanding, connection and support for ocean restoration.
Key Speakers:
Jillian West, proud Palawa and Bunurong woman and owner of Nomuckerlener
Sacha Guggenheimer from SunButter Skincare
John Fuhr from the Great Southern Reef Foundation
Moderated by the talented Jane Hone
Thank you to the team at Nora's and Kerri Green Wines and Tom from Wave Front Solutions for their ongoing support.
More information about White Rock and the incredible work of the Great Southern Reef Foundation can be found here.