News
29 March, 2024
Moreton Bay’s turtle save
Contributed by Redcliffe Sunrise Rotary Club: Biodiversity loss has become a pressing concern globally, with initiatives like the first Global Nature Positive Summit held in Sydney in October 2024 shedding light on the urgency of protecting ecosystems and threatened species.
According to the recently released 2024 Biodiversity Council Concern report, a staggering 85% of Australians prioritise the protection of nature, underlining the importance of conservation efforts.
In response to these challenges, the Redcliffe Sunrise Rotary Club, in collaboration with its Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG), is organising a “Family Turtle Awareness Expo” on Saturday, April 20th, at Queens Beach North, Scarborough.
The event aims to address the issue of turtle hatchlings crossing roads and to raise awareness about the threats they face.
Following incidents of hatchlings crossing into dangerous territory, the City of Moreton Bay Council has invested $250,000 in specialized lighting to safeguard the turtles’ journey to the ocean.
Moreton Bay is home to Loggerhead turtles, listed as a threatened species, making conservation efforts crucial.
The expo will feature educational sessions by experts such as Dr Elvis Okoffo from the University of Queensland, who will discuss plastic sediment research in Moreton Bay.
Assoc Prof Daryl McPhee from Bond University will provide insights into turtle habitat in the area.
The event will commence at 10am with an opening speech by City of Moreton Bay Environment lead Cr Cath Tonks, followed by State MP Yvette D’Ath drawing lucky event prizes at 1 pm.
Activities for children include simulated turtle nest digs and painting sessions.
The expo, supported by a grant from the City of Moreton Bay council, aims to engage the community in conservation eff orts and promote awareness of the threats facing turtles and marine ecosystems.
Admission to the event is free, inviting families to participate in a day of education and fun while contributing to biodiversity conservation.
