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 transforming how we monitor biodiversity and understand ecosystems. By analysing genetic material present in water or soil samples, eDNA allows scientists to detect species that are otherwise invisible, including elusive or endangered organisms. This revolutionary tool is becoming essential in managing and conserving the diverse life found in Western Australia’s wetlands, a critical ecological network at risk 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 methods and discoveries in eDNA research. Supported by Bendigo Bank and Curtin University, this symposium is part of The Wetlands Centre's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices and advance our knowledge of wetland ecosystems.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is transforming biodiversity monitoring by allowing the detection of species from genetic material in the environment. Whether found in water or soil, eDNA offers a non-invasive way to identify elusive and endangered organisms. This innovative approach is vital for preserving Western Australia's wetlands—one of the region’s most valuable ecological systems threatened by climate change and urban expansion.

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

Gain insights from leading researchers about innovative eDNA methods and their applications.
Participate in hands-on activities, including invertebrate studies and data analysis.
Enjoy guided birding and botany walks around Bibra Lake.
Connect with conservationists, scientists, and fellow participants over refreshments.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes for walking
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

This event is sponsored by Community Bank Fremantle—Bendigo Bank as part of our Wetland Symposiums.

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.

Contact the host of Decoding the Helix: Biodiversity & Environmental DNA – A Wetlands Symposium @TWCC

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