1. By Tessa Johnson The Oceania Project Dedicated to Marine Life Research since 1988

2. Overall objectives of the Project “...promote community awareness and co-operation to maintain the process of rehabilitation, preservation and conservation of Cetacea and the Oceans; Promote research of the species for the overall benefit of the community Provide “...environmentally sensitive Ocean platforms for non-manipulative research, education and experiential programmes...” “...educate and promote a community awareness and understanding of the significance of Cetacea and the Oceans.” “Establish facilities and services necessary to disseminate and present information...” “Promote worldwide awareness of the need for rehabilitation, preservation and conservation of Cetacea and the Oceans by liaising and communicating with international governments bodies and relevant organization and individuals.

3. Background/History Established in 1988 in Byron Bay, NSW Dedicated to collecting information and research regarding Cetacea (Species including whales and dolphins) Overall aims to raise awareness about the species and their environments.

4. Project Inspiration Specifically collect information that related to issues that influence the survival of the species. The project’s research on the humpback whales of Hervey Bay is internationally recognized in numerous scientific journals

5. Expeditions and Research Conducted long term expeditions dedicated to colecting research and information relating to the Humpback whales in Hervey Bay "It is only through consistent long-term observation and study that we can begin to unravel and understand the complex social organisation and behaviour of Humpback Whales and determine the social and ecological significance of Hervey Bay for the Eastern Australian Humpbacks."social and ecological

6. Research Programmes Long term Photo-identification survey of Humpbacks (reveals whale behavior, social organization, population dynamics). Further integration of such photos and data into the Southern Cross University learning programmes DNA analysis of the species’ faeces Monitoring the Whale’s Habitat (collaboration with Queensland Environment Protection agency)

7. Reference: The Oceana Project (2014). Retrieved from http://www.oceania.org.au/ http://www.oceania.org.au