Turtle watching tours cease near Bundaberg amid coronavirus fears

Queensland’s turtle watching season has ended early over fears the coronavirus could spread to the local community.

ONE of Queensland’s environmental wonders will be off limits to tourists after Sunday.

Mon Repos, near Bundaberg, famous as a place to watch sea turtle egg laying and hatching, has announced it will cease nightly tours for the rest of the season after Sunday night in response to growing fears over the coronavirus pandemic.

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A loggerhead turtle hatchling at Mon Repos, near Bundaberg. The first turtles have arrived at Mon Repos to nest, signalling the beginning of turtle season in Queensland. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland.

The Queensland Environment and Science Department said the decision to end the nightly tours prematurely was to ensure the safety of staff, visitors and the wider community.

People who have already booked tours will receive a full refund.

“The Queensland Government apologises for any inconvenience but takes the health of the community very seriously and will do all that can be done to minimise the risk of coronavirus,” a statement said.

Nightly tours were scheduled to end on March 21.

Environment Department rangers have also reported low turtle hatchling numbers as the season draws to a close.

The Mon Repos Turtle Centre will remain open to visitors during the day.

Hatchlings usually emerge from nests after dusk.