As turtle hatchlings prepare to emerge from their nests along the Sunshine Coast, you’re invited to take part in a hands-on conservation effort to help give these tiny creatures the best possible start.
Sunshine Coast Council, in partnership with Reef Check Australia, Kabi Kabi Peoples Aboriginal Corporation, Noosa Council and Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, will host the 12th annual Clean-up for the Hatchlings on Saturday, 31 January 2026.
This annual event encourages volunteers to join early morning beach clean-ups across the region, from Coolum to Caloundra and Bribie Island, to remove harmful debris that poses a threat to nesting turtles and their hatchlings.
Following the clean-up, volunteers will be welcomed to a thank you gathering at Coopers Lookout Park in Buddina, where they can enjoy a free barbecue, educational displays, and family-friendly activities.
Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Tim Burns said the event was a meaningful way for residents to unite and contribute to local conservation efforts.
“We’re proud to be a turtle-friendly community, and this experience is a chance for people of all ages to take direct action to protect our coastal wildlife,” Cr Burns said.
“So far this nesting season, we’ve recorded 52 nests laid across our beaches. By removing debris, we’re helping ensure these hatchlings have a safer journey to the ocean.”
An important part of Sunshine Coast Council’s role is to maintain and enhance the region’s natural assets, liveability and environment. Council encourages residents to join local conservation programs and remember that everyday actions matter. Each beach visit is an opportunity to protect hatchlings and other wildlife by avoiding litter and helping keep our shores clean. Everyone is encouraged to think carefully about how they dispose of their waste and look for ways to minimise it, because reducing waste at the source is a simple and effective way to protect our environment.
Volunteers are encouraged to register online by searching ‘Clean-up for the Hatchlings’ on Council’s website. The event is single-use plastic-free, and participants are asked to bring reusable items, enclosed footwear, gloves and sun protection.
The collected debris will be weighed and sorted to demonstrate the tangible impact of the community’s efforts and help identify where waste comes from, encouraging long-term reduction.
Event details
Date: Saturday, 31 January 2026
Time: 6am beach clean-ups, 7:30am to 10:30am thank-you event at Coopers Lookout Park, Pacific Blvd, Buddina
Locations: Various beach locations between Noosa, Caloundra and Bribie Island
