Mount Gambier is one of the only places in the world where underwater caves and wonders are on display, nestled off the Jubilee Highway to offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s unique geology and hydrology.
But for Dr Richard Harris – or Harry as he prefers – it is a unique opportunity to explore environmental safety issues and the sustainability of local water resources.
In his latest documentary, My Underwater World, Harry explores Mt Gambier’s delicate ecosystem, which relies heavily on groundwater.
The area is renowned for its stunning limestone formations and diverse biological life, but the health of these caves, and the ecosystems they support, depends on clean, uncontaminated water.
“I’ve been visiting Mt Gambier since the 80s and this doco is a cumulation of forty years watching what’s happening to the water table, some of the cave sites and particularly the coastal spring systems,” he said.
Nestled alongside the Jubilee Highway in Mt. Gambier, the Engelbrecht Caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s unique geology and hydrology.
“The water system is complex – like the Murray darling – it’s a finite resource that relies on regional rainfall,” he said.
“But it also impacted by what’s used for, farms, drinking water – everyone is taking water but not enough is being put in its place.”
During heavy rains, storm drains from the nearby highway channel runoff directly into the groundwater. While this natural process replenishes local aquifers, it also poses significant risks. As demonstrated by the footage captured by Dean Spraakman, Brandan Webb, and 57 Films, the potential for contamination is alarmingly clear.
One of the most pressing concerns is the impact of accidental fuel spills. If a tanker were to spill fuel on the highway, the toxic substances could easily wash into the storm drains and, subsequently, into the groundwater system.
This scenario raised serious alarm bells for Harry, especially since this very groundwater serves as the primary drinking water source for the town.
“I’m no expert, I’m a storyteller that is lucky enough to get to see the marvels and issues first hand,” he said.
Consulting scientists and “getting to know the local land owners and locals who are invested in the water” was extremely important to Harry as he continued to explore the consequences of such contamination, which affects not only the local population but also the coastal spring ecosystems located less than 30km away.
These springs are vital habitats for numerous plant and animal species, and their health is intricately linked to the quality of the water that feeds them.
My Underwater World serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of community awareness and proactive measures in protecting water resources.
“These changes in the ecosystem aren’t visible from the surface so a lot of people don’t know that the issues are contining to worsen,” Harry said.
“It was so important to show people what I have seen over the past few decades.”
By educating locals and South Aussies alike about the potential risks associated with highway runoff Harry hopes to foster a collective responsibility, create awareness and hopefully create change to safeguard the environment.
Mount Gambier authorities and local environmental organisations continue to prioritise infrastructure improvements to prevent contamination but Harry says there is more that needs to be done.
“This could include installing better filtration systems for stormwater, regular monitoring of water quality, and establishing emergency response plans for spill incidents,” he added.
Mount Gambier’s intricate water system is a valuable asset to the southern part of the state, supporting both human needs and rich ecosystems.
Harry’s call to action urges locals and stakeholders to recognise the importance of clean water and take steps to ensure its preservation for future generations.
The documentary originally aired on Nine, with a release on streaming platforms currently in the works.
For more insights into Harry’s mission, visit his YouTube channel.
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