Starting this weekend, there will be a large-scale invertebrate mapping survey happening in Yawuru Nagulagun (Roebuck Bay), where Yawuru Rangers, Country Managers, Environs Kimberley and researchers from Edith Cowan University will be collecting mud samples to identify and record the species found within the mudflats.  

Community volunteers are invited to join the survey, providing essential on the ground assistance for collecting important data, which will contribute to the understanding and protection of this incredible marine ecosystem.  

What the sampling will involve  

Working in teams, you will be guided across the mudflats and take it in turns to collect mud samples and collect all the invertebrates we find (e.g. crabs, worms, snails). These critters will then be sorted at the Broome Bird Observatory’s Pearson Mud Lab, ready to be identified.  By participating, you will have the opportunity to learn about the amazing biodiversity of life below the surface, as well as contributing the protection of these vital populations.   

Why is this important? 

This will be the 5th large scale survey of benthic invertebrates (animals without a backbone that live on or within the sea floor) in Roebuck Bay, with the first one conducted in 1997. Together, these surveys form one of the longest and most comprehensive benthic datasets for a tropical intertidal ecosystem. This important monitoring program offers the opportunity to track long term changes in the bay, building the picture of what food is available to the 100,000 migratory shorebirds that visit these mudflats every year, as well as the food that supports other important animals in the bay including crabs, fish and turtles.

We know this is short notice, and really appreciate you considering whether you would like to join us for one or more of the sessions. 

A few important things to know 

• The mud can be very soft and the sampling requires manual labour. We will share the jobs amongst our team, however please be conscious that this activity will require a moderately high level of fitness.  
• Spaces are limited so please only commit to a session if you are able to join, otherwise let us know in advance if you can't make it. 
• This sampling is for volunteers aged 18+ only. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate children on this occasion. 
• You must be a fully registered volunteer to participate so that you are covered by volunteer insurance. If you have not done so already, please complete your registration here: Environs Kimberley Volunteer Registration 
• Please bring plenty of water, sunscreen and sun-safe clothing suitable for spending time out on the bay. 
• Reef boots must be worn and can be borrowed from us for the sampling session. 
• At the end of the sampling, we’ll ask you to complete a short survey about your experience and provide feedback. Your feedback will help us understand how the sampling went and improve future monitoring activities. 
• Distance to Black Ledge: 30 mins drive (4WD recommended - the section of Crab Creek Road, which is dirt, can be in poor condition). Let us know if you need a ride!

To RSVP, please contact our Project Officer, Alex, on the details below: 

Please reach out with any questions. 

We hope to see you on the mudflats! 

Meet End of Crab Creek Road. Distance from town centre: 30 mins drive

GPS coordinates: -17.967917, 122.290250