A survey of marine life on the Sunshine Coast, which galvanised the support of more than 1000 volunteers, has been nominated for a national research and science award.
Sunshine Coast Council’s Marine BioBlitz is a finalist in the prestigious 2025 Australian Museum Eureka Prizes for Innovation in Citizen Science.
Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez said the Marine BioBlitz, which was held over three days in August last year, mobilised more than 1000 participants, including students, business owners, tourists and Traditional Owners.
Cr Suarez said they surveyed marine life across 50km of coastline within the Sunshine Coast UNESCO Blue Biosphere, which also extends 5km offshore and was home to diverse marine life.
“In collaboration with UniSC and project partners, participants joined 552 boat-based expeditions, documenting hundreds of marine species,” she said.
Cr Suarez the award recognition was a testament to the incredible collaboration across the region between community, scientists and partners.
“The Marine BioBlitz showcases how everyone – no matter their experience or abilities – can be involved in citizen science in a meaningful way, connecting people with our environment.”
UniSC Marine Ecologist Alexandra Campbell said with the assistance of STEM professionals, the community helped build a rich biodiversity dataset while fostering environmental stewardship and scientific curiosity.
“Not only do projects like Marine Bioblitz positively impact our ability to conduct research, they foster a connection between people and nature, which was reflected in the excitement and enthusiasm of the citizen scientists who joined us,” Dr Campbell said.
Sunshine Coast Council’s Team Leader Wildlife Conservation, Kate Hofmeister said that being named a finalist in the 2025 Eureka Prizes was a proud moment for the project partners.
“The Sunshine Coast Marine BioBlitz was such a rewarding project to work on. Across the region, we came together– and all played a role in uncovering the rich biodiversity of our coastline,” Ms Hofmeister said.
The Eureka Prize winners will be announced at a event in Sydney on Wednesday, September 3.