Water sampling conducted on the Macleay after prize win

THE Stuarts Point and District Community Organisation (SPaDCO) has received a Valerie Taylor Ocean Prize for “inspiring sea change”.

Run by conservation organisation Blue World, the awards aim to “make a direct impact on ocean protection and restoration” and activate communities to protect and care for waterways.

This protection extends to NSW marine and harbour eco-systems, marine species, coastal habitats and seabirds.

SPaDCO’s award relates to ongoing stewardship of the Macleay River, with a focus on water quality.

SPaDCO Chairperson Mary-Lou Lewis told News Of The Area, “Our application was aimed at complementing the existing regular collection of standard samples, testing for pollutants, e-coli, nitrates etc.
“We followed up with a phone interview explaining the reasoning and desire to know the water quality particularly during and after holiday periods.
“We sent a photo collage which we took before, during and after the Easter break together with our water test results thus far.
“Our interests and efforts complement what (Kempsey Shire) Council is doing with introducing the new sewer scheme.”
As part of the prize, SPaDCO received three eDNA water testing kits for use in the lower arm of the Macleay.

After a call out for young participants, four locals were invited to conduct the tests at the east end of the Stuarts Point walking bridge between 3-4pm on Monday, 8 September.

In attendance were budding citizen scientists and surfing prodigies Avalon and Sandon Vowels.
“The eDNA kits can test what animals, fish or crustaceans live in the water through DNA identification, as well identifying diseases which may be present,” Avalon noted.

The collected samples were swiftly posted to the lab for analysis, and SPaDCO expects a visual report with the results within a few weeks.

By Jen HETHERINGTON