Conserving and better understanding the unique local marine environment is the aim of a partnership between the University of Newcastle and the Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre.

The partnership, which will promote research and education in the marine sustainability  and coastal environments, will be formalised this week with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the University and the Marine Discovery Centre.

“As the coastal population of NSW grows, it is imperative that the community is aware of the importance of conserving our precious marine environments,” University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nicholas Saunders, said.

“The Centre will deliver cutting-edge marine research and the opportunity for the University, its staff and students to inform the community about coastal management.”

The University offers Marine Science and Sustainable Resource  Management programs at the Central Coast campus at Ourimbah. The University’s students are volunteers at the Centre and academics contributed to its formation and displays.

“The Centre offers high quality environmental programs and interpretative, hands-on displays that cater to people of all ages,” Marine Discovery Centre Chairperson, John Asquith, said.

“It includes displays such as an interactive Ocean Rock Pool, exhibits on climate change and information on baseline research by the University for the scuttling of the Ex-HMAS Adelaide.

“The Centre celebrates our unique marine environment, will be a drawcard for visitors and provides a fun learning environment for young people.”

The Centre has launched a new display to better understand the Port Jackson sharks that live on the Central Coast. It is based on research by University of Newcastle researcher Dr David Powter.

The Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre is a partnership between several community organisations, including the Community Environment Network and the University of Newcastle. For more information visit www.ccmdc.org.au

Photo opportunity and interviews: The Agreement will be signed by University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nicholas Saunders and Central Coast Marine Discovery Centre Chairperson, John Asquith, at the Centre, 11 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal, on Wednesday 9 February 2011 at 10.30am.

For more information contact University of Newcastle Media and Public Relations Officer Leonie Brann on 02 4921 6856 or 0448 898 813.