The Specific objectives for this work included:
(1) Undertake the first line-transect and acoustic field surveys on cetacean diversity within the waters of Manus, PNG.
(2) Increase the research field skills of in-country staff and researchers using practical training during boat-based field surveys.
(3) Build awareness and profile of cetacean conservation in PNG
(4) Drafting of the framework, essential components, action plan, and necessary steps forward to establish a national cetacean management plan for PNG.
(5) Implement regional whale and dolphin action plans – in particular the CMS Pacific Cetaceans MoU.

Brief summary of major achievements for this project:
• 8 days of line-transect surveys undertaken from the south side of Manus Island down to the latitude of Mbuke. Coverage of approximately 1,200 km2 previously unsurveyed waters.
• Survey design also encompassed photo-identification, video and acoustic recordings in conjunction with each sighting. Acoustic listening stations were also set up regardless of sightings approx. every 2 hours.
• Concentrated research training and capacity building experience for a small research team, including: 1 PNG DEC staff member (leader of the marine ecosystems division), 2 recent biology graduates from the University of PNG, a locally placed WWF staff member working on numerous conservation projects in Mbuke area, a (very smart) Grade 10 student from Lorengau (Manus Island) with previous experience with the DEC, head of the Environment Committee of Mbuke Island, and 4 villagers (recent high school graduates) from Mbuke selected due to interest and aptitude for conservation research.
• Species seen: spinner dolphins, sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales and melon-headed whales. Additional species documented through interviews included orcas, large baleen whales and numerous other species of dolphins and small whales.
• Evening information and awareness session (conducted in pidgin by research team members)
• ½ day of surveys with 12 school children onboard to raise awareness and community engagement
• In-depth interviews with village fishermen gathering information about previous cetacean sightings, interactions and legends (conducted in pidgin by research team members)

The project was funded through the Australian Government Indo-Pacific Cetacean Conservation and Research fund.