Bellarine coast in focus

THE wonders of the Bellarine’s marine environment will take the spotlight later this month at an event bringing together nature enthusiasts, scientists and land managers.

Hosted by Bellarine Bayside and funded by Coastcare Victoria, the free community information evening will showcase the research and innovative projects protecting and restoring the northern Bellarine coast.

Attendees will hear from Deakin University marine biologist Dr Jacqui Pocklington, who will present the findings from a restoration project at Steeles Rock aimed at managing destructive sea urchin populations and regenerating golden kelp.

“I’m looking forward to sharing our findings on restoring seaweed forests near Portarlington with the local community,” Dr Pocklington said.

“Golden kelp beds provide habitat for many species, and they provide a range of ecosystem services, including fisheries and nutrient removal.

“Sea urchin populations have exploded over the past 15 years and are impacting Port Phillip Bay’s seaweed forests.”

PhD students Rick Verkooijen and Louisa Graf will also share insights from their research.

Verkooijen has been investigating whether kelp recovery could be supported through the commercial harvesting of native purple sea urchins, while Graf has been tagging and tracking Port Phillip Bay’s coastal sharks and rays to better understand their ecology.

Bellarine Bayside will also provide an update on the progress of several of its key projects along the northern Bellarine coast, including its Coastal Adaptation Plan and the upcoming Coastal and Marine Management Plan.

Bellarine Bayside chief executive Scott Crabtree encouraged the community to take up the “great opportunity to learn more about our precious coast”.

“We are exciting to be hosting this free event for the community to learn about the cutting-edge research that’s happening on our coasts,” he said.

The event will take place at will take place on September 29 at the Indented Head Hall between 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Light refreshments will

be provided.

The event is free, but registration is essential. Head to events.humanitix.com/coastal-wonders