GAT Project Ending Marked by Website Launch in Gathaagudu
Final GAT trip marked by the launch of a new project website — sharing research and strengthening community ties built over four years in Gathaagudu / Shark Bay.
Last week, the end of the Gathaagudu Animal Tracking (GAT) Project was marked with a special event in Shark Bay (Gathaagudu) — bringing together Traditional Owners, researchers, and collaborators to reflect on four years of our shared work.
The highlight of the gathering was the official launch of the GAT Project Website, designed to share key outcomes from the project and stay in touch with the Malgana community as publications and remaining sub-projects are completed. The site showcases the science, stories, and people behind the project — including the tracking of sharks, turtles and dugongs and the importance of cultural connection to Sea Country.
The event was held on June 7th, in Shark Bay, Denham and welcomed community members and partners to hear updates, share reflections, and mark the conclusion of fieldwork.
Lab Lead Sequeira presenting at the GAT event
Throughout the GAT Project, we have brought together Indigenous knowledge with satellite tracking, and built lasting partnerships across institutions and communities. The GAT project was run in collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and the Malgana Aboriginal Corporation.
We are thankful to all our supporters. Project support was provided by the Jock Clough Marine Foundation (and three anonymous philanthropists) together with infrastructure funds provided by the Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre Collaborative Agreement involving multiple institutions (including the Australian Institute of Marine Science, CSIRO, and the WA Fisheries - Department Primary Industries and Research Development. Thanks to The University of Western Australia, The Australian National University, and all those in these institutions who made this work possible.
A heartfelt thank you to the Malgana Peoples for welcoming us into Gathaagudu Sea Country and supporting this journey. We remain committed to jinamanha barraja ngugunu yajalah — thread lightly on this land, good friends.