Livingstone Shire Council and Fitzroy Basin Association tackle Turtle Hour

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Published
13th October 2022

Capricorn Coastal residents are encouraged to switch their lights off and support the region’s inaugural ‘Turtle Hour’ on Thursday 20 October from 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm.

Residents and businesses are being encouraged to flick the switch and consider the small, ongoing changes they can make to help the region’s marine turtles.

The hour of darkness aims to spread awareness about the negative impact artificial light has on nesting sea turtles and hatchlings.

Livingstone Shire Councillor, Andrea Friend, said that Turtle Hour provides an opportunity for everyone to play a part in protecting the local environment.

“The beautiful coastline of the Capricorn Coast supports multiple turtle nesting sites that we’re very proud of and keen to preserve,” Cr Friend said.

Everyone is invited to participate, and you don't need to live near the beach to make a difference.

“With turtle season commencing, this is a fantastic opportunity to consider the glow you create with your household lighting and how you can reduce it to help turtles survive and thrive.

“Too much artificial lighting can deter adult turtles from nesting and confuse hatchlings.”

Fitzroy Basin Association (FBA) and dedicated local volunteer group Team Turtle CQ (TTCQ) and the youth-led Team Hatchlings have been the driver behind this inaugural and important event.

FBA Community Participation Officer, Lisa Del Riccio said that urban artificial glow is a threat to Capricorn Coast marine turtles and the solution sits with community members.

“Only one in a thousand marine hatchlings will make it to adulthood and all species of marine turtles in Australia are currently threatened with extinction. This is a fantastic example of how many small actions can make a big difference - and a challenge we know the Capricorn Coast is ready for,” Lisa said.

To find out more about turtles, please visit our website www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/turtles or Fitzroy Basin Association https://fba.org.au

Turtle Hour event details
WHEN: Thursday, 20 October 2022 from 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm