S A RESULT of the April 2023 sponsorship round, the Australian Geographic Society will be providing funding to three projects focused on the oceans off our southern coastline. Marine specialist from the University of Queensland is investigating the effects of ocean plastic on Australian sea lions. The critically endangered mammal species is highly susceptible to coastal contaminants such as macro and microplastics. Janet’s study will identify plastics present in the faeces of colonies located in from Flinders University. She hopes to find out more about the reputed “garbage patch” believed to be forming in the waters of Gulf St Vincent due to microplastic-laden run-off from the urban areas of Adelaide. Also focusing on marine mammals is of the Marine Mammal Foundation (MMF) in Victoria. The MMF aims to be a leading marine mammal conservation, education and community engagement organisation. Our funds will help Kate conduct vital eDNA monitoring in Victoria’s coastal waters to assess mammal assemblages across the state.
