Expert invited to join Darwin Harbour committee

An environmental microbiologist with more than 28 years research experience has been appointed to the committee that will advise government on how to protect one of the Northern Territory’s most valuable assets, Darwin Harbour.

Charles Darwin University Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Director Professor Karen Gibb is one of 15 members invited to join the Darwin Harbour Advisory Committee (DHAC).

The reinstatement of the committee was announced by the Member for Port Darwin, Paul Kirby, and aims to provide channels for engagement on the management and conservation of Darwin Harbour and its catchment (the Darwin Harbour Region).

Professor Gibb leads the Environmental Chemistry and Microbiology Unit, which is a research and commercial unit at CDU.

Along with her team, she investigates the source of contaminants to interpret changes in marine, estuarine and aquatic environments.

“Part of our research is helping to reveal how bacteria are helping us to understand our local environment, with a particular focus on Darwin Harbour,” Professor Gibb said.

“This research has supported important improvements in the methodologies and policies that underpin the sustainable management of marine, estuarine and aquatic systems across Northern Australia.”

DHAC members possess a range of experience and expertise and will serve a three-year term.

The first task of the committee will be to develop advice on a community-led integrated plan of management for Darwin Harbour and plan to protect vital habitats such as mangroves.