Celebrate the beauty and diversity of the Moreton Bay region at The University of Queensland’s Moreton Bay Research Station open day on Saturday, November 21.
The event, to be held from 10am-3pm, will provide an insight into the rich diversity of marine life that surrounds North Stradbroke Island.
“The recent Healthy Waterways report card has highlighted how fragile the bay is,” said Dr Kathy Townsend, Manager of Research and Education at the Moreton Bay Research Station.
“Maintaining the health of our marine environment is important as it provides crucial habitat, income, food and medicine.”
UQ BAY FEST 2009 will be a very casual, family orientated affair, with a wide variety of marine-related activities for people of all ages, including a live science show, shark exhibits and a virtual aquarium space created through the magic of Hannan David Production.
“UQ BAY FEST is a good opportunity for people to see what is located right on their front door step,” Dr Townsend said.
“Dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, fish, whales and over 140 species of coral are all found in Moreton Bay marine park. The diversity is surprisingly high considering how close we are to one of the fastest growing cities in Australia.”
The day will also include a marine touch tank and aquarium displays, while the ever popular “Marine Mystery Animal Quiz” will test people’s knowledge with prize packs available for the winners.
Talks will be presented by researchers currently working at the Moreton Bay Research Station.
Manta ray ecology, great white shark movements, humpback whale health and the impact of ingested marine rubbish on sea turtles are just some of the topics that will be discussed.
UQ BAY FEST 2009 will be held at Moreton Bay Research Station, located at the corner of Flinders Avenue and Fraser Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island. Entry is free and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Getting there: catch the ferry or water taxi from Toondah Harbour, Cleveland to Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island, followed by a five-minute walk along the shore to MBRS.
For further information, contact Moreton Bay Research Station (telephone 07 3409 9058, email: mbrs@uq.edu.au or web site www.cms.uq.edu.au/mbrs
