The National Marine Science Centre, situated at the boundary of the stunning Solitary Islands Marine Park in sub-tropical Coffs Harbour, boasts one of the finest locations globally for researching coastal and marine ecosystems and their diverse inhabitants. Research at the NMSC is enhanced by state-of-the-art marine laboratory and field facilities.[1]
With expertise in areas such as marine biodiversity and ecology, aquaculture, estuarine and coastal processes, and coastal management, a rich foundation is established for teaching and research initiatives focused on conserving and sustaining marine environments impacted by urbanisation and climate change.[2]
The Centre is sited within the grounds of the Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, a few kilometers north of Coffs Harbour. The building was at one time the resort's sports centre, gymnasium, squash courts, and alfresco restaurant.
Capacity development of marine scientists and managers
History
The University of New England (UNE) built a small marine field station on Arrawarra Headland in the early 1960s. The then Professor of Zoology at UNE, Tony O’Farrell, was the chief instigator in the creation of the station and at that time it was the only permanent location for the teaching and research in marine biology and ecology between Sydney and Brisbane.[citation needed]
As marine biology research developed in Australia and in universities, in the 1990s the Head of School for Biological Sciences at UNE, Professor Rodney D. Simpson,[3][4] led a proposal for an extended marine science centre to augment marine research. This was especially relevant with the development of the Solitary Islands marine park immediately offshore. Professor Simpson became the inaugural Director of the NMSC.[citation needed]
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