British & Irish Lions, Rugby Australia support Great Barrier Reef conservation

The British & Irish Lion will head to Australia on tour next year, with this new charity partnership aimed at raising awareness and funds for the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef. The world’s largest coral reef system is composed of almost 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands. It stretches over more than 2,300 kilometres over an area of roughly 344,400 square kilometres.

It is home to more than 1,600 species of fish, dolphins, whales, dugongs, and six of the world’s seven species of marine turtles.

The Great Barrier Reef is also under threat from climate change – according to the Foundation, half of the planet’s coral reefs have been lost since the 1950s. This is caused by more frequent and severe mass coral bleaching events and severe storms, and without action, up to 90% could disappear by 2050.

“We are incredibly honoured to be the official Global Charity Partner for the upcoming Lions Tour,” commented Anna Marsden, Managing Director of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and restore our coral reefs by connecting with rugby fans and the wider community. Together, we can inspire action and pioneer solutions to ensure a future for our coral reefs.”

Ben Calveley, Chief Executive of The British & Irish Lions, added: “The Lions Tour represents unity and collaboration, and we are excited to partner with Rugby Australia and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. By joining forces, we can harness the power of rugby and that of The British & Irish Lions to raise awareness and support for one of the most critical environmental issues of our time.

“The Lions are a force for good in both sport and society and we are committed to leaving a positive legacy amongst the communities that we visit – in line with our very own People. Place. Pride strategy. Our ambition is to make sure that this tour is the greatest ever – and that means making an impact both on and off the pitch.”

The partnership aims to raise awareness by engaging fans through targeted messaging about the importance of coral reef conservation; provide education through interactive experiences at games and to offer fundraising opportunities for fans and partners.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Great Barrier Reef Foundation as our official Global Charity Partner for the Lions Tour. This collaboration embodies our commitment to not only celebrate rugby but also to advocate for environmental stewardship. We hope to inspire fans to join us in protecting our natural wonder,” said Phil Waugh, CEO of Rugby Australia.

“As we face a critical decade for action, we must accelerate efforts to protect marine habitats, restore coral reefs, and help them adapt to climate change impacts. We invite fans, businesses, and communities to join us through this initiative as we collaborate across oceans to build a better future for the world’s coral reefs.”

Image: British & Irish Lions/Rugby Australia