EVERY year from November to March, Bundaberg's coast is turtley transformed thanks to the arrival of some very special guests.
Loggerhead turtles make the town's Mon Repos Beach their home throughout nesting and hatching season.
Because Mon Repos is the largest Loggerhead turtle rockery in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the perfect spot for visitors to see these creatures in their natural environment.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services rangers sneakily find fresh turtle tracks, then provide guided tours with volunteers for visitors each night from November 7 to March 19.
Turtles are easily disturbed if correct guidelines are not followed. The ranger-led tours ensure all visitors can see turtles without putting the adults or their babies at risk.
"It's incredibly exciting every year when the rangers report sighting the first turtle tracks of the season," said Bundaberg North Burnett Tourism general manager Katherine Mergard.
"We welcome visitors and locals who haven't seen a nesting mumma turtle or a very cute, tiny hatchling to visit Mon Repos Beach this season."
Visitors can book their own turtle encounter in person at the Bundaberg, Childers or Gin Gin Visitor Information Centres, over the phone on 1300-722-099 or online at www.bundabergregion.info/turtles
Entry fees are $12 full price and $6.25 for concession holders. All entry fees contribute to turtle conservation.
