The lives of hundreds of baby turtles were saved by quick-thinking volunteers who rescued the hatchlings just before ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred hit the Sunshine Coast.
Dedicated TurtleCare volunteers worked quickly to safeguard the future of 50 vulnerable nests yet to emerge from the 124 clutches laid this season.
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.
“Volunteers successfully relocated 31 nests, moving 4000 eggs to safer, higher locations in the dunes.
“Unfortunately, one nest on Bribie Island National Park was lost due to erosion.’’
TurtleCare volunteers are highly trained citizen scientists who assist in the ongoing survival of critically endangered turtles by monitoring nesting mothers, relocating nests if necessary for hatchling survival, and providing essential data to support their protection.
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.”
Sunshine Coast Council Disaster Recovery Chair Cr Maria Suarez said the quick response and hard work of TurtleCare volunteers had 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,” Cr Suarez said.
How you can help
Report turtle tracks, new nests and emerging hatchlings to the 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.
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 sponsored by Caloundra City Realty.
