In Protection of Our Seas: Paddling Out Against Deep Sea Mining

On a gloomy Sunday in July, Abbi closed our Brunswick Heads Shop to join a worldwide paddle out protesting against deep sea mining. Organised by Surfrider Australia, families, friends, surfers, and sea-lovers came together, joining voices and paddles with communities across more than 25 countries in a global protest.

Deep sea mining might sound distant, happening somewhere far beyond the horizon, but its impacts could ripple through all of us. This new industry plans to extract metals from the seabed thousands of metres below the surface. Heavy machines would scrape and vacuum the ocean floor, stirring up toxic plumes that could smother fragile ecosystems and disturb life we barely even understand yet. Scientists warn that once these ancient deep sea environments are destroyed, they may never recover.

The ocean is our greatest ally in the climate crisis, absorbing carbon and stabilising the planet’s temperature. It is also the home of countless species - many still undiscovered, many found nowhere else on Earth. To risk this for profit is to gamble with something irreplaceable.

That day at home, gathering in protection for our seas and mama earth, our gathering carried a story of guardianship. A reminder, as Uncle Sol so powerfully shared, that the ocean is not something we own, but a gift entrusted to us. A place that sustains life, culture, and spirit. “Stand up for the ocean, stand up for the earth and stand up for all things that are going to help to bring balance back.”

As a women-owned surf community built on connection to sea and self, Atmosea stands firmly in this protection.

That day was more than a protest. It was a promise. To keep learning, to keep showing up, and to keep protecting the waters that hold us - through all our seasons.

If you’d like to join the movement, visit defendthedeep.org/country/australia to learn more and take action.

Written by Abbi Hart | Photography by Abbi Hart