Updated: Jun 6
We Ramindjerifeel the return of the Kondolar (whales) deep in our mi:wi (spirit). These beautiful powerful creatures are our family, our Ancestors, connected through creation stories, songlines, and the natural rhythms of Yarluwar Ruwi - (Sea Country). Their arrival marks a special time, reminding us of the deep knowledge held in the movements of our non-human relatives.
But this year, we also carry concern. Algal blooms have been growing in our waterways, and we worry about what this means for the health of the sea ~ for the krill, the fish, the birds, the Kondolar and all living things that rely on these systems. When the balance of the waters is disturbed, all life feels it.
Our Elders teach us to watch, to listen, and to care for Country as it cares for us. So, we continue to monitor, speak up, and share this story ~ because looking after the Kondolar means looking after the whole of Yarluwar Ruwi (Sea Country).
Updated: Jun 6
Science Program Manager Nick Whiterod introduced Year 11 Outdoor Education students from Goolwa Secondary College to the region and to the importance of the ocean beach ecology and dune systems.
Nick participated in the well-attended panel on Toxic Surf- South Coast Algal Bloom Forum addressing community concerns about recent water and air quality and joined the River Lakes and Coorong Action Group stall at Goolwa’s South Australian Wooden Boat Festival.
Our Fish Conservation project lead, Sylvia Zukowski from Nature Glenelg Trust (NGT) ran an education event with Investigator College. Sylvia gave a talk about the project, conservation efforts and local threatened fish species. Students then put on their waders and really enjoyed a hands-on opportunity to participate in fish surveys in Currency Creek. They measured, identified and counted fish species, learning the importance of local conservation efforts and research projects.
Ruth Cope from the University of Adelaide is a project team member for our waterbirds project. She talked to years 5 and 6 at Emmaus Christian College about methods researchers use to track birds and how this information is used, and about measuring the health and well-being of different species and this information is collected.
Updated: Jun 6
Project: Conserving Waterbird populations of the CLLMM under climate change
The diverse waterbird community of the CLLMM is a key reason the area was recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The CLLMM is important for migratory shorebirds along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, as well as for non-migratory waterbirds that breed and forage here and is a refuge for during droughts.
The project includes research on bird movement, conservation modelling, and citizen science to manage the CLLMM and surrounding areas, supporting both migratory and non-migratory waterbird populations amid climate change. Led by the University of Adelaide and the project team includes researchers from CSIRO, Flinders University and environmental NGOs including BioR, Birdlife Australia, Nature Glenelg Trust and the SA Shorebirds Foundation.
The project will provide critical information to conserve waterbirds in the region, including
Identifying key habitats for waterbirds, understanding how environmental changes affect their movements, helping with conservation planning and water management strategies
Estimating the benefits of predator control and vehicle access restrictions
Providing conservation recommendations for specific waterbird species based on detailed research and models.
It is also of cultural importance
To restore and adapt cultural practices related to waterbirds in the region
First Nations believe in the living body - the interconnectedness of land (Ruwe), water (Ma:rnmani), people (Palak), animals, and plants (Nga:tar) and that disruptions to this balance can have far-reaching effects.
Tern
World Migratory Bird Day is 10 May 2025.
Grab your binoculars and camera and get involved in Tom’s project here: Waterbird Conservation | CLLMMRC
