Come and See the Sea in the School Holidays!

There'll be lots going on at the Discovery Centre over these School Holidays.  Come and 'see the sea' down at the Wharf Building in Eden - the Discovery Centre is constantly changing with new animals and exhibits all the time.

OPENING TIMES:
11am to 3pm Wednesday to Sunday from 5th January 2011 - 29th January 2011

Adults $7, Children $2, Seniors $5, Families $15

Got a group of 4 or more?
Join us for a Guided Snorkel Tour or a Rocky Shore Ramble - FUN and EDUCATIONAL! Just call us on 6496 1699 to book.

The Power kids from the Great Aussie Road Trip loved the Rocky Shore Ramble!  check out their website:
www.greataussieroadtrip.com.au

Our 3rd Annual Marine Science Forum in March will create plenty of "Food for Thought"

Dr Ana Rubio-Zuazo grading oysters

Our 3rd Marine Science Forum on 26th & 27th March 2011 will not only feature presentations about sea urchins and fish, but will also cover a subject close to the hearts of many seafood lovers:  oysters.  Or more specifically - Sydney Rock Oysters which grow in many of the beautiful estuaries of the Far South Coast of NSW.

Dr Ana Rubio-Zuazo has been working alongside oyster growers in the Clyde River at Batemans Bay for some time now and has a very entertaining and educational presentation to give at the Forum.  Keep an eye on the website for the Registration Form so that you can take advantage of the Early Bird discounts!

Another fantastic line up for our 3rd Annual Marine Science Forum in March

One of the presenters, Dr Jane Williamson

Dr Kevin Rowling will present on his research of fish stocks

We have another great line up of fascinating and engaging speakers for the 3rd Annual Marine Science Forum on 26th & 27th March 2011.  Next year's theme will be 'Food for Thought' and topics such as oysters, sea urchins, sardines and salmon will be covered.  We will also receive a report on the recent mapping of the bottom of the ocean carried out by the Dept. of Environment Climate Change and Water.

Lock in the dates and keep an eye on the website for your chance to register early for discounted rates.  More and more community members are coming along to our Forums to learn a little more about the science behind our marine environment.

The Discovery Centre is buzzing with activity!

The Marine Discovery Centre is a hive of activity at the moment with several groups of students working in and around the place.

We have 33 ANU geology students here for a 2 week study period and we've certainly put on some great weather for their field trips.

On top of this we have quite a few young students from High Schools across the Bega Valley Shire participating in a 2010 Year of Biodiversity Grant Project.  The funding allows for the students to create models of 6 different species of whale and dolphin, aided by talented local artist Ally Dalton.

Adding to the fun is Heather, a 3rd year uni student from La Trobe University - Heather is here for work experience in her field of expertise - natural resource education.

Never a dull moment at the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre!

November Newsletter out now!

The November Newsletter is out now - read all our latest news by clicking here:

Whale Weekend a HUGE success

Whale Weekend at the Discovery Centre was a huge success.  There was standing room only in the Theatrette on Friday night for Dave Donnelly's very informative presentation about the latest news in whale research.

This happy crowd just 'planted' their whale tails

Dave was joined by Kylie Owen who is about to start her PhD on a number of aspects of the humpback whale migration that has become such a huge part of the culture of the Sapphire Coast.  She wowed the crowd with video footage of the placement of high tech monitoring devices onto the backs of humpbacks and another giving the audience a close look at how these amazing creatures feed when in our region on the way to Antarctica.

Rick Walker was very proud of his scrimshaw sperm whale tooth

Saturday was a huge day, with loads of young families taking advantage of the free entry.  Many children happily coloured in whale tails for the Sea of Whale Tails, made their own 'scrimshaw' on plaster cast sperm whale teeth, and we're sure all of them spent time checking out the animals in the ever-popular touch tank.

Watch out for Whales during WHALE WEEKEND at the Discovery Centre

David Donnelly, Marine Wildlife Consultant

There'll be lots of things to see and do during WHALE WEEKEND at the Discovery Centre on 29th & 30th October.  Friday night will see well known Marine Wildlife Consultant David Donnelly telling us all about his amazing adventures researching many species of whales along the East Coast of Australia.  This will take place in the Discovery Centre Theatrette from 6pm. No bookings required, $5 per person entry.

www.marinemammalresearch.com at work

Entry will be FREE on Saturday, with loads of fun activities for all ages:  kids' tattoos, a Sea of Whale Tails courtesy of our friends from www.marinemammalresearch.com , scrimshawing sperm whale teeth ($5 per tooth), educational displays and activities.  This is the place to find out all about all the species of whales we find on the Sapphire Coast.  Have a look at the flyer for all the details or give us a call on 6496 1699 and we'll tell you all about it.

Great Aussie Road Trip visitors

SCMDC Marine Scientist Sheree Epe with the Power family on their ramble

The Power family from Lyneham in the ACT were our special guests last week as part of their Great Aussie Road Trip.  Jasmine, Jemma and little Teddy, along with parents Rachel and Greg and a few friends took part in a guided Rocky Shore Ramble with Sheree and Jade before touring the Discovery Centre.

The children especially enjoyed watching the octopus Matilda entertain them as well as many of the other exhibits. Read all about their trip to the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre here:
http://www.greataussieroadtrip.com.au/power-family/sapphire-coast-to-the-snowy-mountains/sapphire-coast-gem.html

Holiday Discovery Programs - join in and discover the Sapphire Coast!

Join our experienced Guides for a Holiday Discovery Program.  We run Rocky Shore Rambles and Guided Beach Walks - get a group of 4 or more together and take a stroll with someone who can teach you about the wonders we find on our beautiful shores.  Just call us on 6496 1699 to register your interest.  Just $5 for Adults, $2 for children and $12 for families.  Learning is lots of fun with the staff of Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre.

School Holidays are here again!

Our Discovery Centre Guides are ready to welcome your family during the September/October School Holidays.  Open 11am till 3pm from Wednesday to Saturday (29th September till 9th October), bring the family in to discovery the Sapphire Coast's marine world.  Touch tank, aquaria, whale room, research displays, DVD presentations, beachcombing table and more - it will keep the kids happy for hours!

A great turn out for the Offical Opening of the Eden Marine Laboratory

It seems that holding a function on polling day is a winner! We were impressed with the number of people that called in to witness the opening of our new lab and take a look around the Centre.

Professor Andrew Roberts, Director of the Research School of Earth Sciences at the Australian National University did the honours and officially opened our new marine science laboratory on 21 August 2010.

We had some other notable visitors including the Mayor of the Bega Valley Shire, Cr Tony Allen and Cr Russell Fitzpatrick who stopped by to show their support.

Many community members called in throughout the day to inspect our newest facility and take advantage of our open day to have a look at our unique exhibits and displays. Our little octopus delighted visitors with her shy antics and many visitors enjoyed the opportunity to touch and feel some local species in our touch tank.

Many thanks to the local tradespeople who helped in the construction and fitout of our lab and our wonderful volunteers for all of their hard work. Having this new facility will allow us to enhance our education programs and provide a working space for visiting researchers, schools and universities.

Professor Andrew Roberts (ANU), SCMDC Chairman Stan Soroka, Mayor Tony Allen and Cr Russell Fitzpatrick at the official opening of the Eden Marine Laboratory

The lab was established with support from The Ian Potter Foundation.

COME ALONG FOR OUR COMMUNITY OPEN DAY AND SEE OUR NEW LAB!!

As an initiative of National Science Week, we are going to open our new Marine Laboratory on Saturday 21st August (call in on the way home from the polling booth!).

As part of our celebrations, the Discovery Centre will be open from 9am - 3pm and admission will be FREE!  Click here for all the details.  Hope you can join us and check out our new lab!!!

COMING SOON: The Opening of the new EDEN MARINE LABORATORY

Our new Marine Laboratory will be officially opened on Saturday 21st August.  As part of the celebrations, the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre will open all day from 9am and include a number of fun and engaging activities for all ages.  Firstly, the younger visitors will join staff members Steve and Sheree on a Rocky Shore Ramble to explore the rock platforms on nearby Shelly's Beach.  Specimens found during the walk may be brought back to the laboratory and examined under microscopes.

The official part of the day will commence at around 12.15pm when dignitaries will cut the ribbon and declare the Eden Marine Laboratory open.

After lunch, adults will be invited to participate in a brief workshop examining a variety of local seaweeds. This natural product has an amazing array of uses and benefits - come along and learn all about it.

The good news is the Discovery Centre will be offering FREE ENTRY on the day so don't miss you chance to come and have a look at the newest attraction in the Bega Valley Shire.

Funding for the establishment of our new Marine Laboratory was made possible through a Grant from The Ian Potter Foundation.

LOTS OF FUN TO BE HAD AT THE DISCOVERY CENTRE IN THE JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Why not bring the kids in to the Marine Discovery Centre during the School Holidays for lots of fun learning about the local marine environment.  Our trained Staff and Volunteer Guides are keen to show you around!

WINTER OPENING TIMES
11am - 3pm Wednesday to Saturday from 7th July - 17th July 2010

Adults $7, Seniors $5, Children $2, Families $15

WINTER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Call us on 6496 1699 to enquire about a Rocky Shore Ramble or Beachcombing walk with a trained guide.  There's so much you can learn and it's loads of fun looking for hidden treasures on the shore.  The tours take 1 1/2 hours and are subject to tides - if you have 4 or more in your group, give us a call and book now!

Activity Fees:
Adults $8, Seniors $6, Children $4, Families $20

Your chance to comment on the Draft SCT Cultural Heritage Tourism Strategy

Sapphire Coast Tourism's Cultural Heritage Working Group has released its latest Draft Cultural Heritage Tourism Strategy for comment.  Take the time to read through this impressive document and provide comment and feedback to the Working Group by emailing the Working Group Chairman Gordon Beattie on:  g.beattie@arrowsolutions.com.au  or get onto the blog:  http://sapphirecoastculturaltourism.blogspot.com


Click here to download the document:  

Latest Edition of 'Marine Matters' is online now

The 8th edition of 'Marine Matters' is now online through the IMOS (Integrated Marine Observation System) website http://imos.org.au/marine_matters.html.
Check it out - it's an amazing site with plenty of interesting information.

We have a display about IMOS in our Marine Discovery Centre - call in and learn more about this amazing technology and see one of the IMOS floats.

Get the latest from our May 2010 Newsletter

All the latest news is in our May 2010 Newsletter.  Just click here to read all about it:

A good result from the Sea Squirt DNA test results

Long-awaited test results have identified that the sea squirt found in Twofold Bay in March is NOT the invasive sea squirt Didemnum vexillum.  This is a great relief to community members, fisherfolk and more importantly the mussel farmers in Twofold Bay who held grave fears for their mussel stock and future viability if the samples had been found to be the invasive species.

The NSW Department of Industry & Investment has praised the local community and specifically the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre for their quick work in ensuring the public were aware of the potential danger and were geared to deal with it if it were DV.

MARINE DISCOVERY CENTRES AUSTRALIA NETWORK MEETING

SCMDC hosted the 6^th Annual Network Meeting for members of Marine Discovery Centres Australia over last weekend.  We had superb autumn weather to showcase our beautiful region and welcome members from: 

Thursday Island (Qld), Woodbridge (Tas), Henley Beach (SA), Naturaliste (WA), Central Coast (NSW) and Queenscliff (Vic).  The annual Meeting allows members to swap ideas, share new initiatives, work through issues - and enjoy each other's company.

Our Marine Teacher Steve White presented an overview of all of the new curriculum-based School Education Programs he has developed before going into detail about one that will involve working with the local commercial fishing industry, entitled ‘Seastainability’.

The MDCA group were overwhelmed with the many local marine habitats available for the SCMDC programs and took part in one that involved a snorkel tour from Merimbula Wharf to Bar Beach.  An amazing variety of marine life was seen, including two huge rays and a number of colourful fish species.  The group later took the opportunity of a tour of Pelagic Fish Processors with their CEO – and Chair of SCMDC – Stan Soroka.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR COLONIAL SEA SQUIRT

The Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre has been working closely with the NSW Department of Industry & Investment in helping raise awareness about the newly discovered marine pest known as Didemnum vexillum (or colonial sea squirt).  Any boat owners, fishermen, yachtsmen or divers using Twofold Bay are urged to familiarise themselves with the latest news on the pest and undertake all recommended actions should they discover it on their vessels or gear.  For up-to-date information, check the NSW Department of Industry & Investment website:  http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/pests-diseases/marine-pests/species/seasquirt

If you think you have seen the sea squirt, either notify the staff at the Discovery Centre or call the NSW aquatic pests reporting hotline: 02 4916 3877 or Email: aquatic.pests@industry.nsw.gov.au

WELCOMING DELEGATES FROM MARINE DISCOVERY CENTRES AUSTRALIA NEXT WEEKEND

Representatives from Marine Discovery Centres Australia will converge on Eden next weekend for the annual workshop/conference to share ideas, resources and some laughs.  It's a great opportunity for the various centres to discuss new educational opportunities and also see what our region has to offer.  Check out the new website:  www.mdca.org.au to link to all the other Centres.

EASTER HOLIDAYS - PLENTY TO SEE AND DO AT THE DISCOVERY CENTRE

Join a Rocky Shore Ramble or guided Snorkel Tour during the Easter School Holidays through the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre.  If you have a minimum of 4 people, we are happy to try to fit into your busy holiday schedule. Just give us a call on 6496 1699 - if the tide's right and the weather's good, we'll fit you in.  

Get a group together from around the caravan park for lots of educational fun on the rock platforms.  Loads of fun to be had!

'LIVING ON THE EDGE' Marine Science Forum a huge success

Our 2nd Annual Marine Science Forum, held on 20th & 21st March 2010, was another huge success with over 120 people attending each session.  6 impressive and highly regarded speakers gave the audience an insight into their work, covering everything from deep sea canyons (up to 11km deep) to isopods, rocky shoreline ecology to the extensive migratory trails of 23 million short-tailed shearwaters.

Held at the Eden Marine High School Hall, the Forum followed a Science Discovery Day for senior marine studies students and brought around 85 people into town from interstate as well as many from the local region.  It seems that the thirst for knowledge about the marine environment continues to grow, and the SCMDC Research Advisory Group are already planning next year's event.

A great weekend of knowledge sharing, networking and relationship building - all topped with perfect early Autumn weather and set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful coastline in the country.

Professor Patrick De Deckker from ANU wows Eden High students

Marine Studies Students from Eden Marine High School found out all about what a 1st Year University lecture in Marine Science might be like when Professor Patrick De Deckker from The Australian National University visited on Friday 19th March.

In a lead up to the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre's 2nd Annual Marine Science Forum, students were excited to witness some of the most minute - but most important - animals on earth when they donned 3D glasses and saw marine plankton in fine detail.

They were then given the rare opportunity to see amazing fly through animations of deep sea canyons off the South Australian coast.  Some of these canyons are as deep as 11km, and Prof De Deckker was able to explain the features of this relatively unknown area of the deep sea environment.

There's still time to register for the 'Living on the Edge' Marine Science Forum!

Have you registered yet?  What are you waiting for??  This is your opportunity to hear some of our most respected Marine Scientists presenting on fascinating topics relating to our special marine environment.  At only $20/day per person it is worth your while coming along.

Listen and learn, enjoy the amazing visual images and rub shoulders with some of our marine experts.  Register now by downloading the Registration form from our Home Page.  Don't miss out - it is very rare for community members to be given the opportunity to see presenters of this calibre - and almost unheard of outside metropolitan areas.

This is all happening at the Eden Marine High School Hall on 20th & 21st March 2010.

REGISTER BEFORE Fri 26th Feb FOR EARLY BIRD RATES FOR THE FORUM

Early Bird rates apply for 'Living on the Edge' Marine Science Forum Registrations received before Friday 26th February 2010.  Download your Registration Form now to take advantage of these rates:

General Public Early Bird Rate $15 per day (normal rate $20 per day)
Government Representatives Early Bird Rate $40 per day (normal rate $50 per day)

Get in quick!

Another smiling face at the Marine Discovery Centre

Staff at the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre have enjoyed working with a visiting student from Santa Cruz, California over the last few weeks. Maia Lipkin, who is staying with her brother in Tathra, is studying Environmental Studies and is working on a project involving the development of Environmental Education tools.

Maia has joined in with many SCMDC activities, including rocky shore rambles, guided snorkel tours and more recently the Seaweed Workshops. Maia will be with us for another month before returning to complete her studies in the U.S.

New Trainee at Marine Discovery Centre

Board, Staff and Volunteers have been welcoming our newest staff member this week.  Jade Torr, who recently completed her HSC at Eden Marine High School, has been selected for a Traineeship in Certificate II Tourism.

The Discovery Centre is working in conjunction with Auswide Projects and Sertec in managing Jade's role in the Centre's operations.

Jade will be working in a wide variety of areas including assisting with the development of educational programs for visitors, retail, administration and outdoor activity programs.  Welcome to the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre team Jade!

SEAWEED WORKSHOPS HIT THE MARK AGAIN

Our second Seaweed Workshops were held over the weekend of 6th & 7th February and once again were fully booked out.  Dr Nick Yee was joined by staff members Steve White and Sheree Epe in sessions that showcased the importance of seaweeds in our marine environment.

The sessions involved a presentation by Nick on the science of seaweeds in the new theatrette at the Marine Discovery Centre.  The groups then moved on to the laboratory at Eden Marine High School to examine several specimens under microscopes.

Many have provided feedback to the Discovery Centre office - all of which was extremely positive.  One lady chose to join the workshops for her 45th wedding anniversary, calling today to report that the content, delivery and presenters were 'just wonderful' and hoping that she can come again.  These workshops were made possible through a Grant from the Australian Government Caring for our Country Program.

Seaweed Workshops fully booked!

The 2nd of two series of Seaweed Workshops will take place this coming weekend (6th & 7th Feb) and are fully booked out.  The popularity of the November workshops led to a flood of calls from interested people across the state and interstate wanting to book a place in these February workshops.  Unfortunately we are only able to cater for 16 people for each session so many have been disappointed.

The Good News though is that due to the popularity and high demand, we have now decided to run more workshops in the future. Keep your eye on our website for news on when we will run the next series and book early as spaces will again be limited.

GUIDED SNORKEL TOURS over Christmas School Holidays

Ever been snorkelling?  You don't know what you're missing!!  Why not join our fully qualified Marine Teacher and Volunteer Guides and explore the beauty and wonders of the Sapphire Coast marine environment in a safe and educational way.

All gear is supplied so all you need is to apply the sunscreen, bring along a towel and join in the fun!  You will need to ring 6496 1699 to book, as group numbers are limited so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment!

See below for dates and venues for our next tours:
MERIMBULA - 9am Saturday 16th January
EDEN - 9am Sunday 17th January
BERMAGUI - 10am Monday 18th January

See you in the sea!

ROCKY SHORE RAMBLES - Fun and educational for the whole family. Book now!

Want to find out what lurks beneath the rocks on our beautiful shoreline?  Book the whole family for a fun and educational Rocky Shore Ramble with our Marine Scientist and knowledgeable local Volunteer Guides.  See below for dates - you will need to call 6496 1699 to find out all the details and where to meet:

MERIMBULA - 9am Saturday 23rd January
EDEN - 9am Sunday 24th January
BERMAGUI - 10am Monday 25th January

Don't forget to wear sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat and bring some drinking water.  We'll take care of the rest!

MARINE DISCOVERY CENTRE OPENING TIMES - CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Come and see the sea at the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre in Snug Cove, Eden.
Open Wednesday to Sunday from 1pm to 4pm throughout the School Holidays.


ENTRY FEES:
Adults $7
Children $2
Families $15

A great way to fill in the afternoon after a hot morning at the beach!