The beach reefs were destroyed to make way for an un-successful seaweed farm project were that no longer exist, however the coral reefs never returned. Economic collapse in the Indonesia in the 90’s forced the very poor into destructive dynamite fishing to feed their families.

Further damaging existing reefs and eco systems. Pressures now from development are a further threat to the fragile marine eco-system. Local Business’s concerned by the decline in the health of their marine habitat that provides them with a livelihood decided to Contact Tom Goreau the scientist who invented Bio Rock, a low cost and effective coral restoration technique. A project was initiated and funded by the community, several bio-rock structures were made, maintained and monitored by local divers, and they developed well and now healthy micro eco-systems.

In 2008 Celia joined Tom Goreau, the community of Gili t for the Bio-Rock workshop to contribute creatively, her aim to enable a connection with this scientific and restorative technique in a new way.

A Manta Ray and turtle were created both creatures’ regular visitors to the area. The turtle is positioned in shallow water in front of the turtle hatchery. The shapes give immense pleasure in the water to snorkellers and provide wonderful photographic material for raising awareness. Both structures are living and growing coral reef nurseries.

For more information see the the websites of
The Global Reef Alliance and the Gili Eco Trust at:
www.globalcoral.org
www.giliecotrust.org