The relationship between humans and sea life could be symbiotic, but we’re a greedy and careless bunch. The ocean is fragile. We don’t treat it as such.
The Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) has launched a campaign for Threatened Species Day that brings the beauty and fragility of Australia’s marine life into the heart of the nation’s cities – and aims to build humans’ awareness.
The campaign leads with a short film, Fragile Ocean, set to Final Rescue Attempt by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, and voiced by Melanie Zanetti (the voice of Chilli, Bluey’s mum). It intends to reconnect Australians emotionally with the ocean. The film, created by production company, Collider, uses evocative water-formed marine animals moving through urban streetscapes to remind Australians that the ocean touches every part of our lives — from climate to culture, food to identity. It speaks especially to hopeful and sensitive nature-lovers: those who feel the loss of coral reefs, disappearing species such as the Maugean skate, and the damage done by climate inaction.
The soundtrack is drawn from Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds’ 2024 album, Wild God, that explores themes of grief, transformation and the human condition.
Imogen Scott, director of communications, AMCS, stated, “With 76% of Australians living in cities, surrounded by concrete, glass and steel, it’s easy to forget how deeply we’re all connected to the ocean — even if we can’t see it. This is a campaign about wonder and urgency. The ocean is crying out for help. Our Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo have suffered back-to-back bleaching events. Marine heatwaves are driving the toxic algal bloom in South Australia. For those who know these places, it feels like losing a friend.
“But it’s not too late. One of the most powerful tools we have is strong legislation. Right now the Albanese Government is revising national nature laws – this is our moment to secure the protections our ocean and wildlife desperately need. We want people to watch this short film, feel moved and take action. Even the simple act of signing a petition can be mighty when thousands of voices come together.
“We are deeply grateful to Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds for lending us their extraordinary song, Final Rescue Attempt,” she added. “It’s the perfect soundtrack for a nation grappling with the loss of nature — and asking, what now? That’s where AMCS comes in. We know the solutions. And when enough people speak up, change happens. This isn’t just about loving the beach or whale watching from our shores — ocean health is inseparable from our own. The good news is, if we act now, our reefs, ocean and marine life can recover. But they need us to give them that chance.
“Melanie’s ability to balance emotion with urgency and hope brought the script to life in a way that’s both moving and unforgettable.”
Fragile Ocean is a major step forward for AMCS in building national awareness and action for marine protection. The organisation is calling on Australians to demand stronger climate action and nature laws.
Scott added, “Our ocean has never needed us more. And when people care, governments follow. If you care about the ocean and want to be part of the solution, AMCS is where you belong. We are the ocean’s people.”
Credits:
Production Company: Collider
Managing Partner & Executive Producer: Rachael Ford-Davies
Founder & Creative Director: Andrew van der Westhuyzen
Head of Studio Production: Hoss Ghonouie
Producer: Georgia Moraitis
Copywriter: ABEL
Soundtrack: Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, [PIAS] Recordings (UK) Limited t/a Play It Again Sam
Voicevoer: Melanie Zanetti c/- Prime Rib Productions
Sound: Sonar Music
Executive Producer: Sophie Haydon
Sound Designer: Timothy Bridge
