Sunshine Coast students are helping lead a long-term scientific study of an unusual local reef.
Meridan State College marine science students have joined the Mudjimba Island Research Project, which includes long-term research of an area that supports coral cover comparable to parts of the southern Great Barrier Reef.
Dive and whale watching operator Sunreef Mooloolaba is providing operational support including vessels, dive logistics and in-water expertise.
The project also draws on partnerships with the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), Reef Check Australia, the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), and the broader Sunshine Coast dive community.
Meridan State College marine science program’s Craig Reid said the ocean was the students’ classroom.
“This is what marine science education should look like,” he said.
“Our students aren’t just learning the theory, they’re generating data that will be used by scientists, government agencies and the wider community for years to come.
“Students are being trained in snorkelling, underwater photography, water quality testing, and coral and fish identification.
“Their fieldwork counts toward their assessment but, more importantly, it contributes to the long-term protection of a reef in our own backyard.”
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Reef Check survey data from 2024 recorded 29 per cent hard coral cover at Mudjimba Island, which is regarded as a striking result for a reef that is classified as marginal, meaning it sits outside the temperature, light and water chemistry parameters needed to form a true carbonate reef system.
Sunreef Immerse Yourself managing diretor John Fell said the study was significant.
“Sunreef has been diving Mudjimba Island for nearly 50 years. We see the reef change with the seasons, with the currents, with the weather, but we’ve never had a coordinated, scientific way to capture those changes,” he said.
“By putting our vessels, our crew and our knowledge behind Meridan’s students, we’re helping build the dataset that future decisions about this reef will rely on.
“It’s a privilege to operationally support a project where the science is being done by the people who’ll inherit this coastline.”
The project will track changes in coral species abundance and diversity, alongside fish surveys and long-term water quality monitoring.
It will include divers and snorkellers collecting samples from at least four sites, while fish and invertebrate surveys will be conducted using remote underwater video.
The state government is contributing funding towards the project and is installing moorings around the island, to protect marine life and boost local tourism.
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the research would deliver valuable scientific data on the reef.
“The research will not only assist in protecting the coral, fish, turtles and other marine life, but also provide aspiring young marine biologists access to research opportunities right here on the Sunshine Coast,” she said.
“This research part of the project will enable education and research facilities which supports marine conservation as well as tourism jobs.
“Regular divers in the area believe it is some of the best diving spots they know of and it is important that is not only protected, but preserved.”
