Coral
Bay Research Station
One
of the primary aims of the NWRA has been to establish a research station
in Coral Bay, which is operated by the Association with the assistance
of the Murdoch University Foundation. The research station is now
operational, and equipped with basic facilities. The building, which
was donated by the Brogan family, and will be maintained by Bayview
Coral Bay, includes laboratory and office facilities and accomodation
for up to 10 persons.
There
are two boats available for researchers to use: a 5m aluminium side-console
work boat with 60hp 4-stroke outboard, and a 4m aluminium dinghy (with
canopy and ladder for diver entry) with a 35hp 2-stroke outboard.
We also have a LandCruiser troop-carrier 4WD based at the station
for launching and other transport within Coral Bay. Dive Equipment
and microscopes are also available for use by researchers. Users of
the station can hire Kayaks from Ningaloo Kayak Adventures for a reduced
fee subject to availablility.
The
station, facilities and accomodation are available to Members of the
North West Research Association to carry out research in keeping with
the association objectives. Bona fide researchers from other institutions
can also book bench space at the station for research activities;
special rates are available for students. Enquiries can be made by
emailing nwra@science.murdoch.edu.au
Projects
that are already underway or in planning include the causes and mitigation
of coral stress in the Coral Bay area, studies of benthic productivity,
the effects of no-take zones on coral recruitment, and the diversity
and the ecology of seagrasses along the Ningaloo coast. Collaborative
partners include the Australian Institute of Marine Science, the CSIRO
and the Department of Conservation and Land Management.
We hope to provide a fully equipped facility as soon as possible and
are currently compiling a bibliography of research that has been carried
out in the North West. Further information is also available at the
CALM office in Exmouth and at the Myerling Visitor Centre in Cape
Range National Park.
Please see our
conditions of stay
