In addition to the exciting scientific discoveries made during the quarter, a major highlight was the opportunity to meet with the Hon Julie Bishop MP, Minister for Education, Science and Training at the launch of the new research alliance between BHP Billiton and AIMS in Perth on August 28th. BHP Billiton has invested $600,000 in the Western Australian Marine Science Institute (WAMSI) under the theme of "Ningaloo – the Big Picture". AIMS will manage the funds, coordinating a series of research projects in the Exmouth and Ningaloo region. The research programme will provide new knowledge on the region’s marine habitats, the processes that sustain them and also showcase this work and the region’s spectacular marine biodiversity through workshops and symposia. Read about the first collaborative project involving the production of a hyperspectral database in this newsletter.

Regards,