Dedicated TurtleCare volunteers on the Sunshine Coast relocated vulnerable nests to higher ground, rescuing thousands of endangered turtle eggs from the threat of a recent ex-tropical cyclone.
The recent ex-tropical cyclone, which threatened the Sunshine Coast coastline, prompted urgent action from local conservationists. With 124 clutches laid this season and 50 nests yet to hatch, volunteers raced against time to assess and protect the vulnerable eggs.
The danger stemmed from the extreme weather conditions, including extended periods of heavy rainfall, waves overtopping the dunes, and significant dune erosion. These factors posed a serious risk to the developing turtle eggs.
Relocation Efforts and Challenges
Photo Credit: TurtleCare Volunteers Queensland/ Facebook
The TurtleCare volunteers, trained citizen scientists, undertook the challenging task of relocating the at-risk nests. Over a short period, they successfully moved 31 nests, containing approximately 4,000 eggs, to safer, higher locations within the dune systems. This proactive measure was deemed necessary as leaving the nests in their natural state was not viable during such severe weather.
However, one nest in Bribie Island National Park was unfortunately lost due to the intense erosion. The primary goal of the TurtleCare program is to allow nests to hatch naturally, but extreme weather necessitates intervention to ensure the survival of the hatchlings.
Community Response and Ongoing Efforts
Local officials expressed their gratitude for the volunteers’ dedication and hard work. They recognised the volunteers’ crucial role in protecting the turtle nests and highlighted the community spirit demonstrated during the challenging weather conditions.
The efforts of the TurtleCare volunteers have significantly minimised the impact of the cyclone on the remaining turtle nests. With the relocation efforts complete, just over 30 nests remain to emerge for the rest of the season. The volunteers continue to monitor these remaining nests, ensuring the ongoing protection of these endangered turtles.
How the Community Can Help
The community is encouraged to contribute to the ongoing protection of these turtles. Residents are asked to report turtle tracks, new nests, or emerging hatchlings to the TurtleCare hotline or Coolum and North Shore Coast Care.
For sightings on the southern end of the coast, one resident should call 0437 559 067, and for sightings from Maroochydore north, they should contact Coolum and North Shore Coast Care on 0478 435 377. Additionally, residents can help by switching off outside lights from 8 p.m. to reduce light pollution and disorient turtles and hatchlings.
Furthermore, keeping beaches clean by removing rubbish helps provide a safe environment for the turtles to lay their eggs. The TurtleCare program, which is conducted under Queensland Turtle Conservation Project permits, is proudly sponsored by Caloundra City Realty for the 2025 season.
Published Date 20-March-2025