It was a call Sawtell SLSC’s Amy Hannaford was more than happy to take and led to the most incredible day on the water for some volunteer surf lifesavers on the North Coast.
Late last year scientists from Taronga Zoo and the National Parks and Wildlife Service were supported by Amy and Woolgoolga SLSC – providing water safety and supervision – in conducting further research into the habitat and movement patterns of marine turtles in NSW.
“I actually went to uni with the lady doing the research and she got in touch because they’d collaborated with Macksville-Scotts Head SLSC in the past and they were planning on coming up again but this time a bit further north,” Amy said.
“My daughter took the day off school to come along when she heard what we were doing. She’s really interested in science and wants to pursue a career in this sort of field.”
Using Woolgoolga’s Inflatable Rescue Boat, the group surveyed the southernmost corner of Woolgoolga Headland.
In assessing the movements of marine turtles using satellite tracking technologies, as well as their diet, important habitats for turtles can be identified which can then be used for conservation management planning.
An excellent example of multi-agency collaboration outside of the traditional lifesaving and emergency management space, Amy said it was valuable to be part of a process which gives greater insight into turtle migration patterns, movement, and habitat use, and got to see first-hand how important the research is proving to be.
“We went out in the duck, and it didn’t take very long for them. Turtles, when they’re awake, are super quick but when they’re sleeping, they just sit there,” she said.
“The researchers were able to assess the turtles, with one needing to go into care.
“It was pretty sick, but I got a photo of it recently and it’s doing a lot better at the marine conservation centre at Coffs Harbour.
“I felt like I got to make a meaningful contribution to the project. It was a nice reminder that Surf Life Saving can provide opportunities beyond patrolling. Putting our skills into action in such a positive way made my week.”
Wednesday 29 January 2025