We’re inviting the community to celebrate all things Oceans with a nine-day Festival, from Saturday 3 December to Sunday 11 December, that has something for everyone on the peninsula.

The 29th Ocean Festival is brought to you by Northern Beaches Council and the NSW Department of Primary Industries, and includes:

  • celebrating the 40th year of North (Sydney) Harbour Aquatic Reserve at a special event at the Quarantine Station on 11 December  
  • UNDERWATER! 2022 Photo Competition – vote for your favourite online, for the People’s Choice Award
  • Science at the Steyne – test your knowledge with Ocean Trivia and hear from a panel of marine scientists and experts
  • Dive for Debris or book in for rockpool rambles with the kids, or join a field trip to look at mangroves and saltmarshes to learn how they can help us mitigate climate change.

We also continue to celebrate the four other aquatic reserves we have on our doorstep at Barrenjoey Head, Cabbage Tree Bay, Long Reef and Narrabeen Head, which were the focus of our Day at the Bay and Coastal Environment Centre Open Day events earlier this year.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan is encouraging locals to dive into the events, encounters and experiences to celebrate our love of the ocean.

“Our oceans cover 80% of our planet, generate 50% of the oxygen we breathe and absorb 25% of all carbon dioxide emissions.

“Having a dedicated festival is a way to share knowledge about protecting our oceans and the rich biodiversity of the marine environment which supports the activities we enjoy.

“Our program of events has something for everyone so come along to one of our many events,” Mayor Regan said.

The Northern Beaches has 80 km of iconic coastline including 24 ocean beaches supporting five aquatic reserves, five intertidal protected areas as well as National and World Surfing Reserves.

“There is so much to celebrate – our marine waters contribute so much to our lifestyle and the quality of life that we love on the Northern Beaches,” he said.

For the full festival program, go to Council’s website.

This event is sponsored by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

High res images for media use here

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