Introduction
Barrow Island is an A Class Reserve located 56 km off the north west coast of Australia near Dampier, Western Au
stralia. It is a pristine island, home to a number of endemic species and acts as a haven for native animals that are classified as 'threatened' on the mainland. Over 2600 species of terrestrial and subterranian plants and animals have been regularly recorded on Barrow Island. These include 378 native plants, 13 mammal species (including 2 species of bats), at least 119 types of terrestrial and migratory birds, 43 species of terrestrial reptiles and 3 subterranean vertebrates (Morrow & Lagdon, 2013).
The marine environment is more diverse, home to over 9000 species including a number of hard and soft corals, seagrass, macroalgae, sharks, dolphins, an abundance of fish and four species of turltles including Loggerheads, Green Turtles, Flatbacks and Hawksbill Turtles.
Mining for ore, gas and other important minerals is an increasingly important part of Australias' economic growth and exploration of unchartered areas is increasing as existing mines dry up. Before a mine can be established, a large amount of research and work must happen. It is your job as concerned citizens, scientists and corporate mining giants to come up with a plan to successfully mine gas on Barrow Island whilst maintaining a pristine habitat for all of the precious creatures that call Barrow Island and the surrounding waters home.