‘Amazing’ race against time to save little miracles
With the ex-Tropical Cyclone sitting off the Sunshine Coast, dedicated TurtleCare volunteers worked quickly to assess the vulnerability of the 50 nests yet to emerge from the 124 clutches laid this season.
As extreme weather threatened our coastline, TurtleCare volunteers worked tirelessly to safeguard the future of endangered baby turtles.
Wildlife Conservation Team Leader Kate Hofmeister said their quick action and commitment ensured many nests were relocated to safer areas, giving hatchlings a better chance of survival.
“Extreme weather conditions, such as extended periods of rainfall, waves overtopping or submerging the clutch, and dune erosion, pose significant threats to developing eggs,” Mrs Hofmeister said.
“With the ex-Tropical Cyclone sitting off the Sunshine Coast, dedicated volunteers worked quickly to assess the vulnerability of the 50 nests yet to emerge from the 124 clutches laid this season.
“Volunteers successfully relocated 31 nests, moving 4,000 eggs to safer, higher locations in the dunes.
New nest location high in the dunes to avoid erosion. The light guards help to direct hatchlings to the ocean.
“Unfortunately, one nest on Bribie Island National Park was lost due to erosion.’’
Community spirit flows as turtles saved
Mrs Hofmeister said their proactive measures ensured the nests were not at risk and significantly minimised the effects on the remaining turtle nests.
“TurtleCare's primary objective is to leave nests in their natural state, however, this is not always feasible when nests are threatened by severe weather,” Mrs Hofmeister said.
“Thanks to the incredible dedication and hard work of our volunteers, there are now just over 30 nests left to emerge for the rest of the season.”
Disaster Recovery Chair Cr Maria Suarez extended heartfelt thanks to the dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly to protect and relocate turtle nests as the recent cyclone loomed.
“This is yet another amazing story that has emerged showcasing our community spirit and camaraderie during a disaster,” Cr Suarez said.
“The quick response and hard work of TurtleCare volunteers have played a crucial role in protecting turtle nests.
“We thank them for their unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts in protecting these precious turtle hatchlings - and the conservation of the species.”
How you can help
Report turtle tracks, new nests and emerging hatchlings to our Turtle Care hotline or Coolum and North Shore Coast Care.
For sightings on the southern end of the coast call 0437 559 067 and for sightings from Maroochydore north call Coolum and North Shore Coast Care on 0478 435 377.
Switch off your outside lights from 8pm as light pollution is disorientating for turtles and hatchlings.
Make sure you take your rubbish with you from the beach, so the turtles have a clean environment to lay their eggs in.
Our TurtleCare volunteers are highly trained citizen scientists who are making an incredible contribution to the ongoing survival of critically endangered turtles by monitoring nesting mothers, relocating nests if necessary for hatchling survival, and providing essential data to support the protection of these majestic animals.
All TurtleCare activities are conducted under Queensland Turtle Conservation Project permits.
The TurtleCare program in 2025 is proudly sponsored by Caloundra City Realty.