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Conservation
This year’s Marine Festival was a tremendous success, drawing nearly 250 community members who joined the AIG Conservation Team to celebrate Ascension’s unique marine environment. The event took place on 07 and 08 June at the Georgetown Pierhead.
The theme for this year's festival was Sustainable Fishing, highlighting the community's dedication to preserving and caring for marine resources. The celebration showcased various activities and educational initiatives to promote sustainable practices.
The festival kicked off with a Friday Night Live Music event, featuring delicious food and drinks provided by DAD’s and Saint’s. The evening was enlivened by amazing performances from 7 Degrees South and the debut of Moon Base One. The event was a resounding success, and plans are underway for hosting similar events in the future.
Saturday’s festivities began with AIG Conservation's annual fishing competition, attracting 32 participants in both rock and boat fishing categories. The Pierhead buzzed with excitement as crowds gathered (helped by extra minibus services driven by Conrad) to witness the first fish arrivals. The largest catch of the day was a 50 kg Wahoo, reeled in by Garry Benjamin of the Woeback and transported to the pier by the Kingfisher, which came to the rescue after other boats experienced difficulties. Other notable catches included:
The competition was followed by engaging storytelling from the Brownies, a captivating performance of “Around the World in MPA’s” by the Two Boats Drama Club, and Ascension-themed sea shanties by the MPA Youth Committee.
Ascension's youth played a significant role in the festival, running stalls and providing entertainment. The MPA Youth Committee sold cakes and organized competitions, raising almost £60 for the day, which will fund future MPAYC projects.
Adding to the excitement and drawing a significant crowd, Herby and the Sea Rescue team, assisted by the police, delivered an action-packed emergency display complete with sirens, lights, and high-speed boating.
In the main festival area, a variety of stalls offered locally handmade crafts, community art projects, arts & crafts, VR headsets and a science stall with games and updates on the latest marine conservation initiatives. Excellent food was provided by Mahen, Larry, Two Boats Club, Elaine and the NAAFI Truck, with ice-cold refreshments from Saint’s.
The AIG Conservation Team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the festival's success especially the AIG Ops team for all the help with set up. The event would not have been possible without the community's collective effort. We are also grateful to the UK Government Blue Belt Programme and the Blue Marine Foundation for their funding support.
The team eagerly anticipates next year’s festival and welcomes suggestions and photos. Please email us at conservationenquiries@ascension.gov.ac or call 66403/66359. Alternatively fill out a quick online feedback form using the QR code.
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