In the lead-up to turtle season Bundaberg Regional Council is encouraging residents to play their part in protecting nesting turtles and their hatchlings by making changes to reduce light pollution along the coastline.
Closing curtains or blinds and switching off unnecessary outdoor lighting are simple yet powerful actions that can help cut coastal glow, attract turtles to local beaches to nest and help hatchlings find their way to the ocean.
Bundaberg Regional Council Natural Areas and Environment portfolio spokesperson Cr Gary Kirk said, with the region’s coastal population continuing to grow, it was more important than ever to make simple changes to protect vulnerable marine life.
“These endangered animals depend on the cover of darkness for a safe and successful journey between the beach and the ocean,” he said.
“Even small amounts of nearby artificial light can disorient hatchlings, drawing them away from the water toward roads or residential areas.
“This not only increases the risk of harm but also drains the precious energy they need to reach the East Australian Current.”
Council has already taken steps to reduce coastal light pollution through:
- Installing sensors to monitor light levels across the coastline and town centre.
- Replacing traditional streetlights with smart street lighting along the Esplanade and Bauer Street in Bargara.
- Implementing new smart technology lighting solutions on the Bargara foreshore pedestrian pathway.
- Participating in a university-led behaviour change study involving community workshops.
How residents can help:
- Turn off outdoor lights at night.
- Close curtains and blinds to reduce light spill.
- Avoid using high beam near the coast at night and switch headlights off when parked at the beach.
4WD rules during turtle season:
- Stay off the dunes and below the last high tide mark.
- Avoid driving at night where possible.
- If driving during the day, go slow and watch for wildlife.
- Beach driving will remain restricted to daylight hours during turtle season in Moore Park Beach with a night-time vehicle access closure taking effect from 1 November until 31 March.
Additional reminders:
- Keep dogs on a leash to protect nests and hatchlings.
- Report any sick, injured, stranded or deceased turtles via the QWildlife app or by calling the stranding hotline on 1300 130 372.
Turtle nesting season typically runs from November through March, with Mon Repos and surrounding beaches playing a vital role in supporting one of the largest loggerhead turtle rookeries in the South Pacific.
For more information on how to reduce coastal light pollution and support turtle conservation, visit bundaberg.qld.gov.au.
