Eco-research Expeditions

Biolink's Eco-research expeditions reflect the interests of our key staff in addition to a broader, underlying fascination with all aspects of Australian natural history. We strongly believe that in order to protect and nurture the environment, you need to understand how it works and make it an irreplaceable part of who you are. Let us share some of our knowledge and enthusiasm with you through your active participation in our current research programs.

Study Area: Lake Broadwater Conservation Park

Project Collaborators:   

Lake Broadwater Natural History Association; Centre for Innovative Conservation Strategies, Griffith University, Southern Cross University and PPBio Australasia.

Lake Broadwater is a large, ephemeral wetland located approximately 30km to the west of Dalby in southeastern Queensland. The lake has long been the focus of research interest by scientists and interested members of the local community. The Lake Broadwater Conservation Park covers an area of 1800ha and is jointly managed by the Queensland EPA and Wambo Shire Council.

Lake Broadwater is located on the western edge of the Darling Downs. Vegetation includes lakeside Red Gum woodland with Pilliga Grey Box - Ironbark - Cypress Pine - Brigalow forests and woodlands in more arid areas. Following rain, the lake becomes a mecca for waterfowl. An elevated bird hide is located near to the Natural History Museum and allows expansive views over the protected southern areas of wetland. Over 240 bird species have been recorded.

Our regular expeditions to Lake Broadwater focus on two separate projects: (i) Koala ecology and metapopulation dynamics, and (ii) reptile ecology. For the koala project we have established a series of field sites based on a 350m x 350m sampling grid over the entire area. Field work involves sampling for koala densities and activity using a methodology called the Spot Assessment Technique. Using GIS modelling our objective is to obtain an accurate picture of the distribution of koalas within the Lake Broadwater Conservation Park, in addition to gathering data on koala food tree preferences, estimating population size, obtaining demographic data and maintaining an overview of the health status of the population. Koala work is undertaken on an annual basis, generally the second week of October each year and involves a 5- 7 day field trip.

The reptile project involves surveying a number of established transects by night, and recording data on whatever habitat use observations are made during the following day. Investigating the ecology of the cryptic Pale-headed Snake is a key component of the research effort - all individuals of this species are thus measured, sexed and micro-chipped before being returned to their place of capture. Microchipping allows us to use the process of mark - recapture to not only estimate population size; but also collect information on movement, growth rates and longevity. Radio-tracking of some animals will be incorporated into this project as it progresses. Field trips of 2 - 3 days duration occur generally every 1 - 2 months throughout the year. During the course of these field trips, other ancillary survey work will invariably be taking place; one thing we guarantee, there won't be much time to sit around and twiddle your thumbs.

Cost:
Koala Field Trip: AU$950.00 (incl GST) per person ex Brisbane
Reptile Field Trips: AU$250.00 (incl GST) per person ex Brisbane

Accommodation:
We will be camping in the Lake Broadwater camping areas with access to work space, hot showers and cooking facilities. Participants should bring their own camping equipment, including a sleeping bag, mat and pillow.

Minimum Group Size:
Koala Field Trip: Max 4 - 6 adults (sorry, no children).
Reptile Field Trips: by application only.

Meals: Food and beverages are supplied.

Expedition Dates:

Next Koala Field Trip: 7th - 13th October, 2012

Reptile Field Trips: occur throughout the year; contact our office for further details.

Getting there: Return travel to Lake Broadwater will be by 4WD vehicle from the east coast (Brisbane or Coolangatta); pick ups can be arranged en route.

For more information contact