Ministerial launch - Earthwatch celebrates 40th anniversary launch at the Melbourne Aquarium
Earthwatch Australia celebrated a 40 year anniversary of conservation research with a special launch at the Melbourne Aquarium on 29 March. Present at the event was the Hon. Ryan Smith, Minister for Environment & Climate Change and Youth Affairs, to celebrate the occasion and launch the Research Expedition Guide for 2011.
“Since 1971, more than 96,000 volunteers have contributed millions of hours to scientific research projects around the globe,” Mr Smith said
“Earthwatch’s research portfolio – addressing ocean conservation, climate change, ecosystem management and preservation of cultural heritage – includes a robust program specifically for teachers, students and teenagers."
Mr. Smith assisted Earthwatch Australia in launching this year’s expedition guides which includes more than 60 research missions in Australia and across the globe providing rare access to unique areas.
“Through these expeditions, people not only observe, but they take part in and contribute to the scientific research for the preservation of animals and their habitats,” Mr Smith said.
Earthwatch Australia received the honor of having Mr. Smith and two young girls Harriett Gilmore, 4 and Lilah Podvalej, 4 cut into our large marine-themed 40th birthday cake. On August 10th, Earthwatch Australia will be having an Oceania Gala at the Crown Entertainment Complex to celebrate our 40th anniversary and raise much-needed funds to support ocean research and raise awareness about the challenges facing our marine environment. (http://www.earthwatch40th.org.au)
Celebrating the launch were Earthwatch volunteers and scientists, corporate partners, university and council members and of course, the Melbourne Aquarium penguins!
Earthwatch Australia would like to thank everyone sincerely for their support and we look forward to upcoming year.
Hon. Ryan Smith Minister of Environment & Climate Change and Youth Affairs giving a speech to celebrate
Earthwatch's 40th Birthday
Executive Director Richard Gilmore presenting Mr. Ryan Smith with an Earthwatch t-shirt
Group shot with the wonderful attendees, Earthwatch volunteers and scientists, corporate partners, partners and council members