First nesting turtles arrive at Mon Repos marking start of anticipated bumper tourism season

The arrival yesterday of the first nesting turtle of the season at Mon Repos was met with bells tolling across Bundaberg to mark the start of what is hoped will be a bumper tourism season.

Mon Repos Turtle Encounter is the only Ranger-guided turtle encounter available on the east coast of Australia and is instrumental in the research into turtle conservation.

Mon Repos Conservation Park supports the largest population of nesting loggerhead turtles in the South Pacific and is critical to the survival of this endangered turtle.

Local State Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said the ringing of the bells signalled the arrival of thousands of tourists returning to the Bundaberg region for the start of the turtle season.

Rangers, Researchers and volunteers patrolling the beach and were excited to witness the first turtle ashore for the breeding season on the weekend.

Smith notes “while the bells signal the return of the turtles to Mon Repos for the nesting season, it’s also marks the arrival of thousands of tourists from across Queensland and interstate headed for Bundaberg to experience all that our region has to offer.”

The first nesting turtle of the season, Flatback turtle X8473 was first recorded nesting at Mon Repos rookery in 1977 and has had 17 breeding seasons since this time. She came ashore on Mon Repos beach on Friday night and after digging her egg chamber laid 64 eggs in her first clutch for the season.

QLD Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said last year 364 turtles migrated to nest on the beaches of the Woongarra Coast.

Minister Scanlon advised “on top of this, 16,615 people visited Mon Repos during the previous turtle season which is a testament to its popularity and educational value for visitors.

“It’s now also almost run entirely off of renewable energy with 446 solar panels powering the popular tourism destination.

“If you’re planning on visiting us at the centre for a day tour you can book online, or if joining one of our Ranger-guided Turtle Encounter tours then I encourage you to snap up your tickets as they’re selling fast.

Please visit the Mon Repos Turtle Centre website for more information.