In early 2025, SARA commenced a collaboration with RMIT to engage students in the Software Engineering Project Course to help us build the first version of our app, SARA sawfish sightings 1.0. The aim of the app is to make it easier for our collaborators and Citizen Scientists to submit their sightings to us, of sawfish, sharks and rays, and also rostra (trophy saws). The app will go online on International Sawfish Day (October 17, 2025), and be available on the Apple App store and Google Play Store.
The most exciting feature of the app is that it will allow the user to create and save their sighting while still in remote regions where phone cover is sparse, and then upload it when the phone comes back into reception.
For the students from RMIT this was also a real-life experience of testing their skills. In their own words: “We really enjoyed working with Dr. Barbara throughout the development of the app. This project felt especially meaningful as it allowed us to contribute to the conservation of Australia’s marine life. Knowing that our work could support real-world research and help protect shark and ray populations made the experience even more rewarding and we are so thankful to Barbara and RMIT for providing us with this opportunity.” (Nashita Baig, Nicholas Waterson & Talvia Prante)
“This project is my first mobile application development project in my life which helps me gain precious experiences and get chance to work with new friends and friendly client, Dr. Barbara. Despite little to no foundation regarding mobile app development, our team conducted self-learning and research to upskills that adapt technical requirements for the app and adapt clients’ need. We hope that our efforts will support the long-term conservation of sawfish and encourage local community to report sighting of sawfish in remote areas with limits access to the Internet.” (Anh Nguyen)
Sharks And Rays Australia would like to thank Nashita Baig, Nicholas Waterson, Anh Nguyen Thi Phuong and Talvia Tasnim Prante for their dedication and skills!
Update 2026: Our App is only live in the Apple App Store, due to issues with the Android Version. If you are a software developer and can help us to get the Android Version running, please get in touch!
