Program Commencement

The official launch of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Marine Science (ATSIMS) program at James Cook University’s Bebegu Yumba (Townsville) campus begins with a Welcome to Country, spoken by Bindal Traditional Owners, followed by a Smoking Ceremony to honour and pay respect to the land and its original custodians.

You’ll hear opening addresses from JCU’s College of Science & Engineering staff and the ATSIMS team, celebrating this exciting milestone to empower First Nations students through marine science education.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's Reef Education team is also on hand to lead several interactive workshops, including Turtle Identification, Eye on the Reef Rapid Monitoring, and a yarning session where we’ll chat about career pathways in the field.

This opening event brings together culture, community, and science by marking the beginning of an important journey for our First Nations students.