April 2005

The Freshwater Turtles of the Kimberley need your help.  These rare reptiles inhabit remote areas of the Kimberley, surviving in the dramatic fluctuations between the wet and dry seasons.  Little is known about their population ecology and their behaviour.  Therefore Earthwatch is calling on volunteers to assist on its Freshwater Turtles of the Kimberley expedition to increase the understanding of these fascinating creatures.

Short Necked Turtle Pic: ABC

But it’s not all hard work. Volunteers visit a spectacular part of Australia normally only accessible to scientists. Your greatest discovery may be experiencing the beauty of Kimberley for yourself. Camping under the stars in beautiful gorges, cool evenings around a campfire, scenic billabongs lined by pandanus, quolls and potoroos rustling after dark, raucous morning echoes of corellas and cockatoos on the river, and amazing sunsets, are all part of the adventure.

The Earthwatch Freshwater Turtles of the Kimberley project runs from 07 to 20 June,  travelling between Broome and Kununurra. It costs $3750 per person, land only, including a financial contribution to the project. No previous experience is necessary to become a volunteer – all training is provided.

Earthwatch is a not-for-profit organisation that supports conservation research projects by enabling members of the public to work alongside scientists in the field.

For further information, contact Earthwatch on 03 9682 6828, or www.earthwatch.org/australia