Discover the Magic of Turtle Season at RV Lifestyle Village
If you’re considering a move to the Burnett Heads area, there’s a lot to look forward to, especially if you love nature and wildlife. Living at RV Lifestyle Village provides a vibrant community and year-round access to some of the most stunning natural experiences Queensland has to offer. Turtle season is one of the most exciting times of the year—a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
What is Turtle Season?
Turtle season runs from November to March and is a wonderful time along the Bundaberg coastline. During this period, various species of sea turtles, including the endangered Loggerhead turtle, return to the beaches where they were born to lay their eggs. Later in the season, hatchlings emerge and make their brave dash to the ocean, an awe-inspiring event. The Mon Repos Turtle Encounter is one of the most popular experiences, where visitors can see these turtles up close under the guidance of knowledgeable rangers.
Why Visit During Turtle Season?
For nature enthusiasts, turtle season offers an incredible spectacle that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting family and friends, there are numerous ways to engage with this natural wonder:
- Mon Repos Turtle Encounter: This guided experience allows you to watch nesting turtles lay their eggs or see baby turtles hatch and scurry towards the ocean.
- Lady Musgrave Experience: Explore the Great Barrier Reef and see turtles in their natural reef environment. This tour offers snorkelling, diving, and glass-bottom boat experiences.
- Turtle Conservation Volunteering: For those interested in a more hands-on experience, there are opportunities to volunteer with turtle conservation efforts, helping to protect these amazing animals and their habitats.
- Milbi Festival: An annual festival that honours the region’s Indigenous history and the importance of the Milbi (local Taribelang language for ‘turtle’). This ten-day event is filled with cultural activities, art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, and conservation workshops, offering something for everyone. The festival provides a unique opportunity to learn about the connection between local Indigenous culture and the turtles while enjoying the vibrant community spirit.
Interview with Debbie, RV Lifestyle Village Resident and Turtle Volunteer
We caught up with Debbie, a local turtle volunteer, who shared some insights into turtle season and life at RV Lifestyle Village.
What inspired you to become a turtle volunteer, and what does the role involve?
While studying for my degree in Marine Science at JCU, in 1979, I volunteered at Mon Repos during part of the turtle season. This was an awesome experience and something that has been a highlight for me all my life.
When we found RV Lifestyle Village and decided to make the move here, I immediately told my husband that I wanted to return to being a turtle volunteer. The joints are not as good as they were in 1979, the Mon Repo Turtle Center and experience has grown and changed but the experience and opportunity to play a small role in the conservation of these amazing creatures is just as exciting.
The role involves monitoring turtle nesting and hatchling events during the turtle season from approximately November to March, as well as helping to educate visitors about turtle biology and turtle conservation.
How has living at RV Lifestyle Village enhanced your ability to participate in and enjoy turtle season?
The location of RV Lifestyle on the Woongarra Coast, with such close proximity to the largest rookery on the East Coast of the endangered Loggerhead Turtle, has meant that I am living within minutes of being on the beach and into my role as a volunteer.
What advice would you give to residents or visitors hoping to make the most of turtle season?
My advice to residents and visitors hoping to see a turtle event is to book early if wanting a full immersive experience at Mon Repo Turtle Center, as it is very popular and attracts visitors from around the world.
Have patience, as turtles are wild animals who do not adhere to our timetables. If going to the beach, please be aware that movement and light may disturb a turtle, who will likely then return to the water without nesting.
We are also so fortunate here at RV Lifestyle Village as we have the opportunity to take the Lady Musgrave boat out to Lady Musgrave Island on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, where we are able to have a different turtle experience again being able to swim with the Green Turtles.
What do you love most about the RV Lifestyle Village community and its proximity to such unique wildlife experiences?
What I love most about turtle volunteering and living in the RV Lifestyle Village community is that so much of our fabulous wildlife is so readily accessible to us.
Beyond turtle season, Burnett Heads and the surrounding areas are filled with activities for nature lovers. With beautiful beaches, walking trails, and a range of local events, there’s always something to do. RV Lifestyle Village provides the perfect base for exploring all the region offers, with the added benefit of a supportive community of like-minded neighbours.
Choosing to live at RV Lifestyle Village means being at the heart of these incredible experiences. It’s not just about the activities and beautiful surroundings; it’s about community. Imagine being able to share these special moments with your grandkids as they explore the beaches, marvel at the turtles, and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation. Living here gives your friends and family a fantastic reason to visit, creating memories that will last a lifetime.