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 Murdoch University with the assistance of the NWRA. The research station has been
operational since 2004, and is equipped with basic facilities. The building, which
was donated by the Brogan family and is being maintained by Bayview
Coral Bay, includes laboratory and office facilities and accomodation
for up to 8 persons.
There
are two boats available for researchers to use: a 5.6m aluminium centre-console
work boat with 100hp 4-stroke outboard, and a 4.2m Polycraft dinghy (with
canopy and ladder for diver entry) with a 40hp 2-stroke outboard.
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 students and researchers to carry out research in the region. We welcome researchers from other institutions;
special rates are available for students. A booking form is available here. Please send the completed form or make general enquiries to Mike van Keulen: keulen@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 biodiversity
and habitat mapping of the Ningaloo coast. Collaborative
partners include the Australian Institute of Marine Science, the CSIRO
and the Department of Environment and Conservation.
Further information on research activities at Ningaloo Reef are available from the
DEC Marine Science branch, the DEC office in Exmouth and at the Milyering Visitor Centre in Cape
Range National Park.
Please see our
conditions of stay, which includes current pricing. Please note that this document may be updated from time to time.
