Research in Paradise

Hideaway Island is just that. A tiny coral atoll that is located off Melè Bay away from the hustle and bustle of busy Port Vila in tropical Vanuatu. Hideaway Island is also a destination for divers given its extensive coral reefs encircling the island. It is these coral reefs that the staff and students of the University of Newcastle are working to protect.

Dr Ken Zimmerman, lecturer in Marine Science, offers an opportunity to get hands on research experience working on projects associated with protecting and regenerating the coral reefs around Hideaway Island. 

There are two separate trips per year in June and December. This is an exclusive agreement that the University has with Hideaway Island Resort and Air Vanuatu and is open to all students, but specifically those completing MARI3410, as well as staff and the wider community.

As a community participant, you have the opportunity to get involved as much or as little as you want, helping on land or in the water. 

Faculty Project and International Officer, Bronwyn Bloxham and her husband volunteered their time for the June excursion and chose to map the path of existing coral reefs.

“This will allow the team to be able to go back year after year to the exact location and ensure that the quality of the data is accurate,” said Bronwyn.

“It was such a wonderful and rewarding experience that we’ll be doing this again soon,” she added.

In an exclusive agreement with Hideaway Island Resort and Air Vanuatu, all participating members will receive airfares and transfers to Hideaway Island, seven nights’ accommodation and all meals from A$1800 per person.

To book or find out more about the December 2012 trip contact Dr Ken Zimmerman by email at Kenneth.Zimmerman@newcastle.edu.au or call (02) 4348 4127 or (0421) 594 216.