Running from November through March, the Mon Repos Turtle Encounter invites visitors to experience the remarkable journey of marine turtles as they make their way from nest to ocean.
This captivating annual encounter comes to life through the efforts of expert Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers and dedicated volunteers, who return year after year with one mission: the protection and conservation of nesting marine turtles.
Mon Repos supports the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland and plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts.
Visitors to the Mon Repos Turtle Centre can embark on an immersive educational journey, gaining insights into the region’s natural ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts to protect the marvel of Mon Repos.
Katherine Reid, Chief Executive Officer at Bundaberg Tourism, spotlighted the growing acclaim of the Bundaberg Region as a top eco-tourism hotspot, drawing visitors far and wide.
“Mon Repos is one of the most important marine conservation areas in the world, particularly for the endangered Loggerhead turtle,” she said.
“Through this unique encounter, guests will learn about the important work being done to protect these amazing creatures, ensuring that future generations can continue to witness, cherish and protect this natural wonder.
“The Bundaberg region is excited to again open our coastline this season to visitors from around the globe to offer an unforgettable, world-class eco-tourism experience.”
Daily departures to the islands are offered by Bundaberg operators Lady Musgrave Experience and Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort for day trips and overnight stays.
Holiday makers are also making their way to the region to explore the vibrant coral reefs of the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Home to giant marine life including turtles and manta rays year-round, during turtle season overnight guests on the islands are able to engage with guided turtle nesting and hatching activities under the supervision of trained island staff, including marine biologists and Master Reef Guides.
Nicole Murnane, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger at Mon Repos said witnessing the journey of marine turtles as they come to nest and return to ocean was a powerful experience, but it was their story of resilience and survival that truly resonates.
“Each season at Mon Repos is a reminder of the fragility of our natural world and the role we all play in its protection,” she said.
“I invite visitors to become part of the conservation story, and to take meaningful action in their own lives, both here in the Bundaberg region and around the world.”
With the Mon Repos Turtle Encounter experiencing growing demand each year, prospective visitors to the Bundaberg region are urged to secure their bookings early.
Mon Repos Turtle Encounter tickets are on sale from noon, Monday 2 September 2024 and a full range of island day trips and overnight accommodation options are available year-round, all through the Bundaberg Region Visitor Information Centre’s or online at www.bundabergregion.org/turtles.
