Marine heroes protect Mackay’s turtle hatchlings from high tides

Vulnerable turtle hatchlings at risk of high sea swells in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Seth were saved through the tireless efforts of Mackay’s volunteers. Read their incredible work.

Mackay’s passionate volunteers have helped save a vulnerable turtle species from dangerous swells in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Seth.

Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association volunteers worked tirelessly to protect turtle hatchlings on several Mackay beaches.

Flatback turtles, which are considered a vulnerable species, breed every two to three years and this year Mackay’s beaches were densely populated with eggs.

Turtle hatchings on Bucasia Beach. Picture: Ree Sangha

Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association spokeswoman Fay Griffin said volunteers worked over several days earlier this month to relocate turtle nests from high tides.

She said volunteers were forced to act quickly on December 31 when tides rose from an expected 5.8m to 6m as a result of ex-tropical Cyclone Seth.

The weather system also pushed tides above 6m from January 1 to January 6.

“We had five days of over 6m tides,” Ms Griffin.

“Quite a few nests had to be relocated, our volunteers were extremely busy moving them as well as keeping an eye on the changes in weather.

Turtle hatchings on Mackay beaches. Picture: Ree Sangha

“If the nests go under, the hatchlings in the eggs can drown.”

Ms Griffin said moving nests was not as easy as it seemed and volunteers were highly trained in manoeuvring them.

“There is a right or wrong way to move the eggs, so the volunteers had to be very careful,” Ms Griffin said.

Turtle hatchings on Mackay beaches. Picture: Ree Sangha

“Volunteers from all beaches helped each other to make sure as many nests were relocated.

“We would not have been able to move many of the nests without the help of all members.”

Ms Griffin said Mackay residents could do their part protecting turtles if they left them alone.

“If you come across turtle nests or hatchlings the best thing to do is leave them alone,” she said.

“Do not shine a light at a female who is on the beach as this can frighten her and cause her to flee back to the ocean.

“We have trained volunteers who monitor and protect turtles.”