State, local government, industry and community gathered at Challenger Beach Reserve to help launch the Bandicoot Refuge Project.

Craig Wilson, the South Metropolitan Coastcare Officer, officially launched the Bandicoot Refuge Project at Challenger Beach Reserve.  DEC Regional Ecologist Geoff Barrett shared some expert information about bandicoots and a representative from Alcoa spoke about the partnership with Coastcare in the south metro area.

The project is an initiative by the Town of Kwinana, in association with Department of Environment and Conservation and supported by Alcoa.

Following sightings of bandicoots in the Challenger Beach Reserve, a survey was established to determine which parts of the reserve the bandicoots were utilising.  A number of clay pipes, covered with sand and branches have now been laid in the reserve for bandicoots to use as refuges.  Surveys will continue to determine the frequency and seasonality of use by bandicoots.  It is also hoped that these refuges will encourage nesting as bandicoots breed throughout the year.