More than 1000 environmental activists have rallied in Brisbane, calling for stronger protection of the Great Barrier Reef.
Less than two weeks out from the federal election, the environmentalists say they want urgent, effective government action to protect the reef from industrial port expansion.
Among those at the Rally for the Reef was a 72-year-old Brisbane woman who walked 1200km to ensure her great grandchildren will have the opportunity to experience the national wonder when they grow up.
June Norman said she completed the 80-day walk from Cairns to Gladstone and attended the rally on Sunday morning in an effort to highlight the threats that mining placed on the reef.
Her main concern is the sheer number of coal freighters travelling to and from ports via the reef.
"There is an average of one an hour, 24 hours a day, seven days a week," she said.
"Our fragile reef is not able to sustain this.
"Then you add the building of coal ports, the construction of train lines to the ports, dredging and the dumping of sludge out onto the reef."
Great Barrier Reef campaign director from the Australian Marine Conservation Society Felicity Wishart said the fast tracking of industrial development along the reef coastline was the largest emerging threat to the national treasure.
"During the election campaign, we've had promises from both major political parties that they will do all they can for the reef. But empty platitudes won't save the reef from port expansions," she said.
Ms Wishart claimed 4000 people turned out at the rally, showing that Australians wanted swift action taken to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
