Turtle season is officially underway at Lady Elliot Island, and there’s a lot happening both above and below the surface!
In the water, we’ve seen plenty of manta rays gliding around the island, and the turtles have been busy too, with lots of mating turtles around the reef. If it sounds familiar, it’s because we saw the same thing around this time last year. It’s a sign that nesting season is just around the corner, and we’re expecting the first nests to appear soon.
Above the water, migratory seabirds have returned to the island and are busy building their nests, in particular brown and black noddies. On a recent bird watch tour, guests were even lucky enough to spot an Eastern Reef Egret’s nest (no chick spotted though)!
Our recent media coverage included ABC’s Landline program and an ABC Wide Bay article, both highlighting the island’s restoration journey. Scroll down to see how you can watch the Landline episode and read the article.
We’re also excited to share that Tourism Leaders Unplugged, a new video podcast from The University of Queensland and Queensland Tourism Industry Council, is officially live. Our Island Custodian Amy Gash was honoured to be the first guest, chatting with host Abbey Filko about growing up around Lady Elliot Island, running an island resort 80 kilometres offshore, and the story behind Ellie’s Reef Adventures. 🎧 Listen to the first episode here.
This October, the Leaf to Reef research team has also been on the island, using a new dual-camera stereo video unit to collect data on manta ray growth rates and maturity. They’re also studying our brown and black noddies, including their behaviour, where they travel when away from the island and their nutrition before and after nesting season.
If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate your team’s efforts this year, we offer corporate day tours. Get in touch with our reservations team to enquire.
If you’d like to see turtle hatchlings for yourself, we have some availability in January and February, which is when we anticipate seeing our first hatchlings make their way down the beach. Visit our website to enquire and see accommodation options.*
We look forward to welcoming you to Lady Elliot Island!
P.S. We have extended our Locals Only Offer so if you're wanting to visit the Southern Great Barrier Reef for the day visit our website to see how you could save up to $100 per person (see website for terms and conditions).
*we cannot guarantee sightings of wildlife or marine life
