ABOUT US
Ocean Lovers is a purpose-driven cultural and education platform dedicated to strengthening our relationship with the ocean.
Founded in Sydney and shaped by our deep connection to the sea, Ocean Lovers brings together community, science, culture, business and creativity to build ocean literacy, inspire action and support solutions for a healthy ocean future.
What began as a festival has grown into a year-round platform for education, engagement and collaboration with a flagship celebration each March that brings ocean ideas, science and solutions into public life.
WHY WE EXIST
The ocean sustains life on Earth. It regulates climate, produces much of the oxygen we breathe and underpins our economy, wellbeing and way of life, particularly in a coastal nation like Australia.
Yet despite its importance, ocean health is often overlooked or misunderstood. Ocean literacy remains low, and many people feel disconnected from the science, overwhelmed by the scale of the challenge, or unsure how to play a meaningful role.
Ocean Lovers exists to bridge this gap.
By connecting people with knowledge, experiences and solutions, we help turn concern into understanding, and understanding into positive action for the ocean.
WHAT WE DO
Ocean Lovers delivers impact through a unique combination of celebration, education and community engagement.
Each March, the Ocean Lovers Festival brings tens of thousands of people together to experience the ocean through science, innovation, creativity and hands-on discovery, showcasing world-leading research, emerging technologies and practical solutions for protecting ocean health.
Beyond the festival, Ocean Lovers works year-round with schools, scientists, educators, industry, government and creatives to deliver education programs, community initiatives and collaborative projects that build ocean literacy, inspire behaviour change and strengthen ocean stewardship.
OUR PURPOSE
To strengthen people’s connection to the ocean and empower positive action for ocean health.
OUR MISSION
To be a voice for the ocean, building ocean literacy, raising awareness and empowering communities to protect it.
OUR
VISION
To turn ripples of action into waves of change, placing ocean health at the centre of our shared future.
OCEAN LOVERS FESTIVAL FOUNDERS
About
ANITA KOLNI
Founder/Director
Festival Founder Anita hails from generations of ocean lovers with her father and uncle being world- class and Olympic sailors. She is a born communicator and networker, having worked on events such as the Cannes Film Festival, Monte Carlo Grand Prix and the ATP Tennis Tournament. Anita has a passion for bringing people together; a key to the festivals vision for ocean impact. She is fast becoming recognised as a global connector in the ocean sector for her campaign to bring hope for the ocean to the public.
About
CAROLYN GRANT
Co Founder / Director of Engagement
Carolyn is fellow Founder of the Festival. She has led an award-winning PR agency for 30 years, specialising in major events and festivals, tourism and the arts. She has played a founding role in establishing significant events in Sydney including Vivid Sydney and Sydney New Year’s Eve. Carolyn also brings a passion for the environment and the ocean as a life long sailor.
