Students name safe havens

The names come from the very creative minds of Gunbower Primary School students Zane, Adam, Hunter, Ayva, Theo, Kalvin, and Saige who won the competitions to name the floating turtle islands in nearby Longmore Lagoon.

The North Central Catchment Management Authority, Turtles Australia, and Ridley Corporation, have been working together to construct the turtle sanctuaries.

The islands provide a safe space for turtles to lay their eggs, away from the predators that decimate their population.

“Research tells us that 98 per cent of turtle eggs are lost to predation, and most of that is at the hands of foxes,” North Central CMA project manager Amy Russell said.

“Turtle islands help protect the endangered and critically endangered populations of turtles on the Gunbower Forest floodplain and in Gunbower Creek by providing a safe space for them to lay their eggs.

“The trials we have been doing over the past few months have been really successful, and we’re slowly building the case to build more in the area and beyond.”

Ms Russell said Gunbower Primary School had a strong connection to the area, with students regularly taking part in River Detectives and Gunbower Forest Ramsar projects and events.

“The students love the area and are really keen to do what they can to protect the plants and animals of Gunbower Creek and Gunbower Forest, especially the turtles,” she said.

“We love their enthusiasm and always enjoy their excitement.”

That enthusiasm was obvious on the day, with students excited by all aspects.

“It was pretty cool how they (CMA and Turtles Australia) made them from all the things available in nature. I hope the turtles are able to be safe from foxes,” student Hunter said.

“I thought the islands were cool, as they are helpful for the environment. I really liked making the poster for the island name,” Adam said.

“It was beautiful to see the turtles. It is good to know facts about them. The islands are a great idea to protect their eggs from predators,” Scarlett said.