Hidden coastal treasure revealed

FAMILY FUN: Emma and Luke Gurney enjoy their time together in Port MacDonnell with the Coastal Connections activity.
FAMILY FUN: Emma and Luke Gurney enjoy their time together in Port MacDonnell with the Coastal Connections activity.

BEACH explorers young and old learnt about the South East environment on Monday morning as they took part in the Coastal Connections school holiday program.

Held in Port MacDonnell, the group of 19 discovered what wildlife lives in the region and how to better protect the environment.

Ecologist Rebecca Phyland led the eager group of locals and tourists through a range of games and fun activities as they explored the fundamentals to a healthy ecosystem.

“The Coastal Connections programs are a great way for kids and adults to take away a little snapshot of coastal ecology,” she said.

“Parents become a little better at protecting the coastline by cleaning up rubbish and this trickles into the community.

“It is about being gentle and mindful of the ecosystems when enjoying the beach.”

Set to host a range of other activities over the next few days, Ms Phyland said the rockpool ramble session is among the favourites.

“Kids are able to peek under rocks and see coastal creatures in their natural environment,” she said.
However, with spaces filling fast, Ms Phyland encouraged people to book quickly before they miss out.

“There are still spaces available up and down the coast with plenty of fun activities for both children and adults to enjoy,” she said.

“The snorkeling at Piccaninnie Ponds in particular will be great for whole families and something many may never get to do
again.”

Visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au to view the Coastal Connections program.

DETECTIVES: Riley Gregory, BJ Little and Ben Gregory take part in the beach detectives activity in Port MacDonnell.