Jessica and Jacinta presenting a cheque to Tony of KI Dolphin Watch

Kangaroo Island Dolphin Watch was delighted to receive a cheque for AU $140 from two young supporters recently. Jessica Rowe and Jacinta Paardecooper are extremely interested in dolphins and whales and totally committed to assisting with their protection and conservation. The girls initiated a number of projects including an information stall at a local market, donation tins etc, resulting in considerable personal effort turning into much needed funds to support Dolphin Watch’s research and conservation work. They also created a photographic display of known animals from the American River / Pelican Lagoon section of the Dolphin Watch catalogue at the Oyster Farm Shop in American River, with the help of their parents. Members of the local community and visitors are encouraged to feed in information regarding the local dolphin population, augmenting research efforts.

Jessica’s parents Amanda and Ken Rowe who operate Kangaroo Island Shellfish and the Oyster Farm Shop, are hoping in the near future to equip their workers with cameras to help capture images of the dolphins around their oyster leases, providing much needed information regarding distribution, seasonal patterns of movement and behaviours etc. This level of scrutiny will significantly increase both understanding and protection of the local dolphin population.

Sincere thanks and congratulations to Jessica and Jacinta, and to Amanda and Ken, for their fantastic ongoing efforts. Their passion and commitment is greatly appreciated and provides a wonderful example to others.