DECODING THE HELIX: A Wetlands Symposium on eDNA
Delve into Wetland Biodiversity: Exploring Environmental DNA (eDNA)
Date: Friday, 21 November 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:15 PM
Location: The Wetlands Centre Cockburn
184 Hope Road, Bibra Lake WA 6163
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is revolutionising how we monitor biodiversity and understand ecosystems. By analysing genetic material found in water or soil, scientists can detect species that are otherwise invisible — including elusive or endangered organisms. This powerful tool is vital for conserving Western Australia’s wetlands, which face growing threats from climate change and urban development.
Join us for an immersive day at The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, where conservationists and community scientists will guide you through the latest methods and discoveries in eDNA research. Supported by Bendigo Bank and Curtin University, this symposium is part of our ongoing mission to promote sustainable practices and deepen our understanding of wetland ecosystems.
Event Schedule
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
– Welcome and Coffee/Tea
9:15 AM – 10:45 AM
– Introduction to eDNA and Urban Biodiversity
– Guided Walk: Birding and Botany Walk with Water Sampling
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM
– Morning Tea
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
– Introduction to eDNA Techniques
– Invertebrates Under the Microscope
– Interactive eDNA Sampling and Data Analysis
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
– Lunch
1:00 PM – 1:20 PM
– Developing a Wetland Health Index
– Case Studies: eDNA for Monitoring Biodiversity
1:20 PM – 2:10 PM
Focus Talks (10 minutes each):
– Dr Mieke van der Heyde – Innovations in eDNA for tracking subterranean biodiversity
– Dr Matt Campbell – Using ancient sediments to reveal past ecosystems
– Assoc. Prof. Bill Bateman – Predator-prey interactions and tiger snake toxins
– Will Roocke – Citizen science uncovering backyard biodiversity through eDNA
– Dr Kat Dawkins – Detecting endangered freshwater crayfish with innovative eDNA methods
2:10 PM – 2:15 PM
– Wrap-Up
What to Expect
– Insights from leading researchers on cutting-edge eDNA methods
– Hands-on activities including invertebrate studies and data analysis
– Guided birding and botany walks around Bibra Lake
– Opportunities to connect with conservationists, scientists, and fellow nature enthusiasts
What to Bring
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle
– Notebook and pen for notes
Provided: Morning tea, lunch, insect repellent
Meet the Experts
– Dr Mieke van der Heyde – Monitoring dark biodiversity through subterranean fauna studies
– Dr Matt Campbell – Exploring ancient ecosystems using eDNA from sediment layers
– Assoc. Prof. Bill Bateman – Expert in predator-prey dynamics and toxin biology
– Will Roocke – Citizen scientist uncovering biodiversity through backyard eDNA projects
– Dr Kat Dawkins – Specialist in using eDNA to detect endangered freshwater crayfish
Sponsors
– Proudly sponsored by Community Bank Fremantle — Bendigo Bank
Don’t miss this exciting journey into the world of eDNA and wetland conservation!
Register today to secure your spot and be part of a growing movement committed to safeguarding Western Australia’s biodiversity.
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