Published on Friday, 25 October 2024 at 10:35:40 AM
In a collaborative effort to protect Hedland’s precious flatback turtles and their hatchlings, the Town is again teaming up with Care for Hedland, Water Corporation and Horizon Power to reduce lighting along the foreshore this breeding season.
Nine street lights have been switched off along Sutherland Street, from the Hedland Hotel to Crawford Street, and from Stevens Street to the Hedland Hotel, capturing the Cemetery Beach pathway.
The lighting changes started last week with the Koombana water tower also included, with its large lights turned off during Flatback turtle season, which runs from November until March.
This action will reduce light pollution, which can disorientate nesting turtles and their hatchlings as they make their way to the ocean during the turtle season.
Care for Hedland chairperson Kelly Howlett said the start of turtle season was a timely reminder that torches and flash photography were not allowed on the beach during turtle season.
“This initiative will assist with the natural hatching process of our local flatback turtles who are very sensitive to light and get easily distracted by any bright lights,” she said.
Mayor Peter Carter welcomed the initiative saying how important it is to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of local flatback turtles.
“Artificial lighting can interfere with a turtle’s instincts, especially during the nesting and hatching phases,” he said.
“By dimming or switching off unnecessary lights, we are ensuring that our coastal areas remain safe havens for these precious marine animals.”
The collaboration between the Town, Care for Hedland, Water Corporation and Horizon Power demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainability and wildlife preservation.
Horizon Power will manage the technical aspects of the light adjustments, while Care for Hedland will monitor the impact of reduced lighting on turtle activity throughout the season.
Residents and visitors to the area are also encouraged to support this effort by minimising the use of outdoor lighting at the beach and following good practice.
The initiative aligns with the Town’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2022-2027, which aims to protect the flatback turtles, leading the way in protecting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
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