In May 2025, nearly 70 leaders, scientists, policymakers and advocates gathered in Sydney for the first symposium dedicated to the South Tasman Sea and Lord Howe Rise: a volcanic “lost world” of towering seamounts, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural connections.
Over two days, participants presented 30 scientific papers, joined panel discussions, and created a collaborative mural, weaving together ecological data, cultural knowledge, and policy insights. The symposium foregrounded Indigenous Knowledge systems and leadership, reminding us that the ocean is not only a reservoir of life, but also of history and heritage.
This proceedings report brings together the presentations, discussions, and reflections from this unique multidisciplinary event. It highlights the extraordinary significance of the South Tasman Sea and Lord Howe Rise, identifies knowledge gaps, and points the way toward future conservation opportunities.