Become a reef scientist for a day

Townsville residents are invited to become a reef citizen scientist for a day on Saturday 17 October.

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection and Minister for the Great Barrier Reef Minister Dr Steven Miles urged people to get involved in the one-day ReefBlitz community event when he met several of the students who will be taking part.

Dr Miles was helping to promote the 12-hour challenge to find and record Townsville’s wild species, both in and out of the water, at locations around Jezzine Barracks and on Magnetic Island.

“Citizen science initiatives such as this are a great way for people to become involved in protecting and preserving our environment,” he said.

“You can work with local scientists and experts to conduct surveys and undertake hands-on activities. Some of the exciting events that are planned include mangrove exploration, uncovering reptiles and amphibians, rocky shore ramble and a rapid assessment of birds.”

Reef Blitz is an initiative of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and the Queensland Government is a major funding partner.

“We’re delighted to support this event which encourages local communities to get involved in understanding, monitoring and ultimately protecting their local reef environment,” Dr Miles said.

“Hopefully many of these people will go on to join local volunteer groups who work hard to restore the reef and nearby habitats throughout the year.”

ReefBlitz is being held in conjunction with the start of the Great Barrier Reef Clean-up at Rowes Bay, Pallarenda in Townsville.

Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Claire Hanratty said residents of Townsville and visitors to the region would unite to make a difference for the Great Barrier Reef.

“From bird watching to snorkelling, molluscs to mangroves, ReefBlitz has something to interest everyone who is passionate about protecting and preserving the reef and Townsville’s biodiversity.

“In 2014, residents of Airlie Beach recorded 191 species during ReefBlitz. This year I am urging residents of Townsville to show their competitive spirit and help break the 200 species mark.

“Take up the challenge and become a citizen scientist for the day as part of ReefBlitz.

“With local communities working together and the support of the Foundation’s ReefBlitz partners including the Queensland Government, Boeing, the Earthwatch Institute and Orica, we can achieve great things for the reef.”

ReefBlitz activities start on Friday 16 October with a schools program and corporate teams event.

Visit www.barrierreef.org/reefblitz for more information and to register for the free activities.

ENDS