Dolphin research citizen science workshop in Fingal

DOLPHIN Research Australia is hosting a citizen science talk and workshop in Fingal Head later this month.

In partnership with local Aboriginal Land and Sea Rangers, the Dolphins and Whales of the Tweed Region event will commence with a talk on September 26, exploring ecology, conservation, cultural significance and current monitoring and research.

The workshop on September 27 will expand on the talk with hands-on training on standardised methods to record sightings that support the local monitoring program.

Founding director and chief executive of Dolphin Research Australia, Dr Elizabeth Hawkins, said the free talk was open to all residents and visitors in the region who cared about marine life.

“We’re sharing our current knowledge on the dolphin and whale species and populations of the region, and what we know about their habitat use and conservation priorities,” Dr Hawkins said.

“We’ll focus on their cultural significance and how people can help protect our local populations in this important area.”

Dr Hawkins founded Dolphin Research Australia, a grassroots charity dedicated to protecting dolphins, whales and their ocean homes, in 2012.

The current work in the Tweed is part of baseline research she began in 2010.

“The citizen science workshop is part of our East Coast Dolphin Watch Program, where the community can get involved in contributing to the research.

“You’ll learn how to interpret different behaviours and understand what the animals are doing, and how to record sightings for monitoring at the next level.

“It’s also about creating a community of dolphin watchers who can help animals in need or in distress.”

Dr Hawkins said both the talk and the workshop were for everyone who loved the ocean.

“It’s something that the whole community can help with in multiple ways,” she said.

“When you’re taking those moments looking through your window or out on the beach, most of the dolphins at Fingal are residents all year round, and just like us in so many ways.”

Bookings are essential for both events. For information and to register, visit events.humanitix.com/tweed-dolphins.