Rescue group steps up for turtles

TURTLES and seabirds stranded by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred have been rescued and treated by Ballina’s Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue, with dozens still in care.

The weather event caused significant disruption along the coast, displacing sea turtles, seabirds, and sea snakes.

Strong winds, heavy rain, and rough seas left many of the animals stranded, injured, or in distress.

Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue assistant general manager Amanda Philip said they can have up to 30 animals in care at one time.

“It has been so amazing to release a clutch of incubated turtles back into the ocean as well as some of our pelagic seabirds,” she said.

“It’s a wild ride managing so many animals sometimes but seeing them go back out into the wild makes it all worth it.”

The rescue group has an education centre, turtle hospital, rehabilitation aviaries and ICU for sea birds at its Ballina facility.

It was formed in 1992 and has relied on the support of volunteers from across the region.

“In the last ten years we have rescued over 5500 animals,” general manager Steve Whalan said.

“Turtles are usually in care for five to eight weeks before they are released.

“Most turtles present with float syndrome, a condition where gas is trapped internally preventing the turtle from diving and therefore feeding, leading to emaciation.

“The sea birds often present with fishing entanglements, and this impact is a persistent message we deliver in our education programs.

“The local community has always been crucial to how we rescue these animals, both with resources, volunteer carers and calling in sick and injured seabird and turtles.”

The group was recognised for its effort with an environmental award from Ballina Shire Council earlier this year.

They held one of its main turtle release days in February with upcoming release and volunteer information available on the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue Facebook page.

If you find a stranded or injured sea turtle, seabird, or sea snake you can phone the rescue group to assist on 0428 862 852.