The Pilot Deployments Program (PDP) is the operational testing component of RRAP, focused on demonstrating, refining and improving the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, scalability, safety and acceptability of selected RRAP interventions in real-world settings. It represents a critical step on the pathway from research and development to future adoption and deployment on the Reef.
Deploying larval collection pools off Agincourt Reef. Photo: GBRF
The RRAP R&D Program has recommended two types of interventions for pilot deployment in 2025 – seeding of larvae and seeding of aquaculture-propagated corals.
These interventions were selected based on their more advanced technology readiness and modelled potential benefits to the Reef.
PDP delivery is led by the Australian Institute of Marine Science, in collaboration with RRAP Partners and reef delivery partners. It is funded primarily by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.
The Program aims to further develop and prove novel interventions before they become critically needed by:
Traditional Owners, tourism operators and researchers work together to set up floating pools to collect coral spawn, early capacity building activities in December 2024. Photo: Great Barrier Reef Foundation
During PDPs early capacity building projects in 2024, Traditional Owners, marine tourism operators, and marine industry groups capacity building project, took part in activities based around the annual Great Barrier Reef coral spawning event.
Participants across tourism, aquarium trade, maritime services and Traditional Owners worked alongside RRAP researchers from industry vessels. The crews were trained in emerging methods for collecting and delivering large volumes of coral larvae and young corals onto reefs.
Dr Pirjo Haikola
Project Officer, Research Planning
AIMS
Jordan Ivey
Indigenous Futures Project Leader
AIMS
Ruby O'Neill
Project Officer, Contracts
AIMS
