21 May 2010

A previously unnamed reef in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park has been officially re-named in honour of the late Virginia Chadwick AO, an inspiring and dedicated leader in marine conservation.

Virginia Chadwick Reef is located in the Bandjin Reefs Group in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Lat 18°00'14" S and Long 146°50'20" E). It was previously an unnamed reef (reef 18-016).

The announcement will be made this evening at a special function commemorating Virginia's considerable contribution to the marine environment.

"This is a fitting tribute to the first female chair of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and honours the immense contribution Virginia made to protecting this great natural treasure," Dr Russell Reichelt, Chairman of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said.

"During her eight years leading the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, she was well-known for both strong leadership and her commitment to the marine environment.

"Virginia's passion, interest and involvement in environmental issues won acclaim worldwide and the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike.

"Among her most significant achievements was overseeing the 2004 rezoning of the Marine Park to achieve a major increase in protected no-take areas.

"Appropriately, Virginia Chadwick Reef is located in a protected area of the Marine Park.

"Virginia was an inspiration to all those who knew her and will be remembered for her significant contribution to protecting the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park."

The rezoning of the Marine Park in 2004 included the most extensive community consultation process ever conducted on an Australian environmental issue.

It set an international benchmark in marine conservation and generated international awareness of Australia’s environmental conservation initiatives.

Virginia’s role in overseeing the agency’s involvement in other management initiatives is also noteworthy.

Prior to joining the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, she served in the NSW Legislative Council and held various Ministerial positions. She was the first woman elected as President of the Legislative Council.

Her significant contributions in the field of research and education were formally recognised by her peers on many occasions, including being awarded an Office in the General Division of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday 2005 Honours List.

In 2009, Virginia received an Honorary Doctorate at James Cook University in recognition of her significant achievements.

Virginia passed away on Friday 18 September 2009.

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