John Rumney

John Rumney Managing Director, Eye to Eye Marine Encounters Great Barrier Reef Legacy. John has a passion that is palpable and contagious. He has dedicated his professional and personal life to supporting research and pioneering marine ecotourism on the Great Barrier Reef. He has been an outstanding advocate for marine conservation whilst demonstrating the “commercial advantage to saving the reef”. John has been an unfaltering steward for the underwater world through his live-aboard adventure diving expeditions, citizen science programs, industry appointments and numerous community initiatives. His efforts and knowledge of the underwater world has inspired countless individuals, PhD’s, influenced policy makers and continues to be a driving force in the preservation of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s greatest treasure.
In 1995, John initiated the Minke Whale Project (MWP) collaborating with researchers from James Cook University and Museum of Tropical Queensland. This has expanded over the years with citizen scientists contributing to Minke Whale Research on the Great Barrier Reef with whale Id’s and behavioral observations of these uniquely inquisitive animals. The MWP is held up as world’s best practice.
In addition to having won numerous awards for his efforts in environmental conservation, John and his research initiatives have featured in many documentaries about the Great Barrier Reef including David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef.
John’s most recent endeavour, Great Barrier Reef Legacy is a not for profit social enterprise that will use an independently funded long-range research vessel to provide essential access and support for coral reef research, education and multimedia programs with a particular focus on engaging the youth of Australia.