Heron Island

Earlier this term, Year 12 Marine Science students (along with a few lucky Biology and International students) were lucky enough to visit the Heron Island Research Station on the beautiful southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. Leaving late Thursday night, students and teachers arrived blurry eyed in Gladstone early Friday morning before making the boat trip to Heron Island for a three-night stay.

The purpose of the trip was to allow students the opportunity to investigate the coral reef to collect data for their student experiments. As part of these studies, students collected information in groups using biological field study techniques such as transects, quadrats, and of course, plenty of snorkelling.

As well as a diverse array of beautiful corals, students witnessed the vast biodiversity of marine organisms including reef sharks, eagle-rays, reef fish, sting rays, shovelnose rays, groupers, as well as numerous green and loggerhead turtles using the island to nest and lay their eggs.

Highlights included offshore boat trips to observe popular dive spots such as the ‘Blue Pools’, ‘Coral Canyons’ and the world famous ‘Heron Bommie’. The early 4.30 a.m. wakeup call was a hit with most students that managed to rise. They experienced ‘Sunrise with Stevo’, which involved tropical island sunsets, walking among nesting turtles and an early morning snorkel. Some were even lucky enough to catch some turtle hatching and escaping their nests!

Students were also fortunate enough to be involved in the filming of a home-grown nature documentary, with particular focus on the future of our marine habitats and the importance of education of the marine environment. Capturing plenty of awesome footage, Lin and Dave filmed students interacting with many of the interesting Heron Island residents. They may have even stumbled on the next David Attenborough (Oliver) and Steve Irwin (Alex)?

A big thank you to Mr Stephens, Ms Tatzenko and Ms Mockridge for all the assistance in coordinating the camp. Thanks to the Heron Island Research Station staff and caterers John and Claire for making our trip a beauty!

In particular, a massive thanks to all the students who made the trips to Heron Island this year another awesome experience!

Danny Brentnall
Marine Science Coordinator