By Jordan Walden
Something Wild Worth Protecting tells the story of a fragile marine ecosystem under threat, and the people fighting to save it. Just beyond the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef lies Exmouth Gulf, a vital nursery for ocean life and a key lifeline for the reef itself. The health of one depends on the other: if we lose the Gulf, we risk losing Ningaloo too.
Years ago, local wildlife filmmakers Jordan Walden and Michael Tropiano stumbled across a remote and untouched corner of the Exmouth Gulf, Urala Creek. As they explored its winding mangroves and hidden tidal channels, they discovered an ecosystem teeming with life: turtles, rays, sharks, and the critically endangered sawfish. What they found was so wild and undisturbed, they initially chose to keep it to themselves, hoping to shield the area from human impact and protect the wildlife that thrived there.
But when they learned of a proposed industrial salt mine by German company K+S SaltWorks, everything changed. They realized they had to speak up, and show the world why this place must be protected.
Jordan Walden, wildlife filmmaker and creative force behind the popular Dingus vs. Wild YouTube channel.
Shovelnose ray on the bottom of Urala Creek.
Following the film’s release, K+S withdrew its proposal, a major conservation victory. But Exmouth Gulf still lacks formal protection. Until that changes, its future, and the fate of Ningaloo Reef, remains uncertain.
You can learn more about the conservation efforts in Exmouth Gulf and Ningaloo Reef at www.marineconservation.org.au/protect-ningaloo.
Aerial view of the remote Urala Creek, the pristine and critical wetlands of the Exmouth Gulf.
Dugong calf nursing on her mother. Dugongs are one of many species that call the Exmouth Gulf home and rely on the health of the local marine ecosystem.
Additional Viewing
Diving into Conservation: The Importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
From Research to Outreach: Underwater Photography as a Tool for Science
Protect Sea Turtles with a Postage Stamp! [VIDEO]
Illuminating the Technology of Coral Reef Research
New Manatee Habitat Discovered | A Call to Action [VIDEO]
Ocean Conservation in Action // Be an Environmental Influencer [VIDEO]
Washed Ashore: Using Discarded Plastic to Save the Sea
Jordan Walden is a wildlife filmmaker and conservationist based on the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. Originally from the United States, Jordan began his career in outdoor television production, spending five years crafting adventure and wildlife content before setting off to explore the world beneath the surface. He spent several years as a traveling scuba diving instructor and underwater photographer. That journey eventually led him to the remote coastline of Northwest Australia, where he found both creative inspiration and a deep commitment to marine conservation. Across his social media platforms and popular YouTube channel, Dingus vs Wild, Jordan shares high-energy ocean adventures, behind-the-scenes moments from life at sea, and compelling stories that spotlight the wonders—and the fragility—of marine life. His mission: to inspire global audiences to care about the ocean, and to protect what remains wild. Follow Jordan on YouTube, Instagram, and on his website.
