The Peel-Harvey Estuary, the largest and most complex estuarine system in the South West, is being monitored by Murdoch University to ensure its health is protected and restored for future generations.
In collaboration with the Peel-Harvey Catchment Council (PHCC) and the Winjan Aboriginal Community, the university uses a specialised Fish Condition Index.
The Index, developed by Murdoch University, surveys fish communities across the whole estuary system twice every two years, providing critical insights into how the ecosystem is responding to ongoing pressures like low rainfall, marine heatwaves and changing land use across the catchment.
Senior Lecturer at Murdoch University Dr James Tweedley said fish are an excellent indicator of estuarine health.
“The Peel-Harvey Estuary means so much to many people, and it’s important to continue surveys like this to see how its health is tracking over time,” Dr Tweedley said.
“This is like an annual health check-up for the estuary. By monitoring the fish communities, we can compare current conditions with records going back to the 1970s and better understand the impact of human and environmental change.”
Dr Tweedley joined members of PHCC and the Winjan Aboriginal Community to give the Member for Mandurah, Rhys Williams, a first-hand look at how the research is carried out.
The team conducted nearshore fish sampling in Coodanup using a seine net in shallow waters.
“While we didn’t land a huge haul, it was a great morning in Coodanup with James, Danielle and Matthew — wading through the shallows, learning how this research is done,” Mr Williams said.
“The Peel-Harvey Estuary is at the heart of our way of life in Mandurah — it’s health is directly linked to our wellbeing, lifestyle and local economy.
"That’s why research like this is so important.”
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