Greenpeace activists disrupted operations on a Woodside gas platform off the coast of Western Australia over the weekend, halting work on the rig located approximately 240 kilometers from the Pilbara town of Karratha. The protest centered around environmental concerns regarding planned drilling near Scott Reef, one of Australia’s largest oceanic reef systems.

The demonstration began Saturday when Greenpeace’s vessel, the Rainbow Warrior, arrived at the site. Two protesters then scaled the rig and unfurled a banner that read, “Stop Woodside’s Dirty Gas. Save Scott Reef,” before remaining on the platform for an extended period. As a result, Woodside temporarily suspended its activities on the rig to ensure the safety of its personnel and the protesters.

Woodside criticized the protest, describing the activists’ actions as unsafe, reckless, and unlawful. A company representative stated that the conduct was not peaceful and posed risks to those involved.

The contested drilling area includes Scott Reef and nearby Seringapatam Reef, which are critical habitats for marine biodiversity. Scott Reef supports 29 species of marine mammals, including the endangered pygmy blue whale, as well as a wide variety of corals, fish, rays, and sharks. The reef’s ecological value has made it a focal point of environmental advocacy, with critics warning that resource extraction could harm the delicate ecosystem.

Scott Reef is distinct from the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world’s largest coral reef system, but is nonetheless considered a significant marine habitat by Australian conservationists and environmental groups.

Woodside has advanced plans to expand gas drilling operations in the region, drawing opposition from environmental organizations concerned about the potential impacts on marine life and reef health. The company maintains its commitment to safe and responsible development, emphasizing adherence to regulatory standards.

The protest underscores ongoing tensions between resource development interests and environmental preservation efforts in Australia’s offshore regions, where the balance between economic activity and ecological protection remains a subject of public debate.