The Kimberley coast in Western Australia stands as one of the planet's top 4% pristine coastal regions. It has been home to Indigenous Australians for countless generations, boasting abundant marine life. Off the Murujuga (Dampier Peninsula), a vibrant underwater ecosystem thrives, with corals, seagrass, and sponge gardens teeming with diverse fish species; dugongs, turtles, dolphins, and whales navigating these waters. Further, the Yawuru sea country (Roebuck Bay) attracts migratory shorebirds traversing one of the longest migration routes to feed on the rich mudflats. Situated 300 kilometres (185 mi) off the Murujuga coast, Scott and Seringapatam Reefs and Rowley Shoals Marine Park lie on the continental shelf's edge, a vital migration route for cetaceans and turtle nesting sites.These untouched underwater sanctuaries harbour rare, endemic and endangered species and serve as a critical migration path. The marine park boasts some of the world's most significant tidal surges, with atolls rising dramatically from depths of 400 meters, causing nutrient- rich upwells that fuel a spectacular display of biodiversity. Yet, this ecological marvel faces threats from proposed fossil fuel exploration, which would subject it to disruptive activities like seismic blasting, pipe laying, and gas drilling.
