Ocean with David Attenborough
A Geography Victoria event in collaboration with The Royal Society of Victoria and the Emerging Scientist Network
Sunday, 14 June 2026
An Inspiring Victoria event
This event included a special screening of Ocean with David Attenborough, followed by afternoon tea and a panel discussion involving early career researchers from The University of Melbourne.
Ocean with David Attenborough is an extraordinary film and provided an opportunity not only to view this inspiring documentary but also to celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s 100th year and his lifelong commitment to revealing and protecting the natural world. The event also coincided with both World Environment Day (5 June) and World Oceans Day (8 June).
In the film, the celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker reflects on how his lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Through spectacular sequences featuring coral reefs, kelp forests and the open ocean, Attenborough shares why a healthy ocean keeps the entire planet stable and flourishing.
The film was made available through the Revive Our Ocean team and presented through a collaboration between Geography Victoria, the Royal Society of Victoria and the Emerging Scientist Network. Revive Our Ocean is a global initiative that seeks to scale marine conservation efforts to boost ocean health and secure the future of the frontline communities and marine biodiversity that rely on it. They aim to engage coastal communities around the world to protect 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 and to ensure a healthy future for all life on Earth – one where both nature and local economies thrive.
Afternoon tea was provided by Geography Victoria, and the post-film discussion was expertly chaired by Sara Guest, Geography Victoria Board member and University of Melbourne PhD candidate. Our inspiring panel members, Juju Munns and Dr Ellycia Harrould-Kolieb, shared their insights into marine conservation, highlighting the vital role that marine protected areas play in supporting biodiversity, communities and climate resilience. The panel discussion generated thoughtful questions and lively discussion, reflecting strong interest in the issues raised by the film and an interest in engaging with complex environmental challenges.
The capacity audience was diverse and included Geography Victoria members and supporters, scientists, educators, university students and members of the wider community. The event clearly demonstrated strong community interest in ocean conservation and environmental issues as well as the appeal of combining a documentary screening with opportunities for discussion and social connection.
Feedback received from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressing an appreciation for the opportunity to view the film, hear directly from researchers working in the field, connect with others who share an interest in environmental issues during the afternoon tea, and experience the historic Royal Society of Victoria building.
The event strengthened the partnerships between Geography Victoria, the Royal Society of Victoria and the Emerging Scientist Network and demonstrated the value of collaborative programming in reaching new audiences and diverse audiences.