From: Peter Garbett cetalfauna@hotmail.com

Subject: [MARMAM] Final call for volunteers required for humpback whale research at Norfolk Island.

To: marmam@lists.uvic.ca

This is the final call for volunteers to participate in humpback whale research at Norfolk Island.

Applications are sought from volunteers to assist with fieldwork on cetaceans, with emphasis on humpback whales, from 23 August to 14 November, 2008. The twelve (12) week survey will take place during the 2008 southbound migration of humpback whales past Norfolk Island. Continuing on from annual surveys conducted at Norfolk Island since 2003, the 2008 program will be the most extensive to date. The majority of data shall be collected from land stations, however some vessel-based work will be conducted. Work will involve documenting numbers, position and behaviour of humpback whales, as well as data relevant to observations of other cetaceans. The survey will also entail vessel-based photo-ID, acoustics and slough skin collection.

Ideally, volunteers are sought for the entire survey but those who can commit to a lesser period will also be considered. You will be responsible for your transport to and from Norfolk Island. Accommodation and food will be provided. However, a nominal contribution to food costs will be welcomed.

 
Although the survey will benefit from those who possess experience with cetacean research, training will be provided to those with a genuine interest in the marine environment. Survey equipment is far from complicated, indeed those who can use binoculars and VHF hand-held two-way radios will find themselves well qualified for the task. Significantly, a mature approach to working and living with a team of dedicated researchers for an extended period is of greater consequence.

One caveat though, previous surveys from Norfolk Island have shown that occasionally several days may pass with no cetaceans sighted.

For those interested, cetacean species recorded in Norfolk Island waters by the survey team include humpback, minke and pygmy killer whales, as well as bottlenose and short-beaked common dolphins. Anecdotal and whaling records suggest additional species.

 
Applicants should send an introductory email to Adrian Oosterman <carmel_adrian@hotmail.com> or Peter Garbett <cetalfauna@hotmail.com>.
 
Applications will be considered as they are received and you may note that we have extended the closing date by one week (now 19 July).

Those who have previously applied and received correspondence from us in return need not reply to this posting.

Adrian Oosterman / Norfolk Island Whale Survey

PO Box 143, Scarborough, Qld 4020, Australia

Ph. +61 7 3038 8131

Mob. +61 418 984 324

Email: carmel_adrian@hotmail.com
 
Peter Garbett / Norfolk Island Whale Survey

1010 Beenleigh-Redland Bay Road, Carbrook, Qld 4130, Australia

Mob. +61 421 152 667

Email: cetalfauna@hotmail.com
 
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Peter Garbett

cetalfauna@hotmail.com

0421 152 667