Port Augusta Dolphin Watch crew

Port Augusta Secondary School undertook its first field survey at Port Augusta recently, funded by an NRM Community Grant through WDCS. The Year 10 students and teacher Jaya Nair were fortunate to have Dr Mike Bossley AM: Managing Director of WDCS and Dr Sue Gibbs of SA Museum, both recognised Cetacean experts, accompanying them on their first expedition aboard the “DekyZane”. Aaron Morgan’s vessel, purpose built for award winning Eco Tourism accredited Flinders Ranges Water Cruises, proved a perfect platform for the photographic identification work undertaken over a wide ranging area from above Port Augusta down to the shack areas well south. Numerous animals were seen at a variety of sites and the crisp, clear conditions allowed for excellent images to be obtained. Later analysis of the data resulted in outstanding progress in developing a local ID catalogue. Aaron’s local knowledge, interpretive skills and passionate enthusiasm are a great boon to this burgeoning programme.