Marine and wildlife scientist Dr Vanessa Pirotta recently returned from the first ever Tonga-led whale research trip 🐋 In collaboration with the local Vava’u Environmental Protection Association (VEPA), she trained local ambassadors to monitor whale sightings and collect environmental DNA, a tool used to detect marine life. For some of the local team, it was their first time seeing a whale in the wild. The work aims to ensure the sustainability and longevity of whale swim tourism in Tonga. Keep up to date on their findings over at tonganwhaletourismproject! #MacquarieUni #WhaleResearch #Tonga