Fitzroy Basin Association > Team Turtle CQ (TTCQ)

Team Turtle CQ (TTCQ)

Fitzroy Basin Association is the proud host of Team Turtle CQ, the leading citizen science program relying upon local volunteers to record data on marine turtle nesting activity, since 2015.

With every passing season, a greater understanding of turtle nesting in central Queensland is gained. Team Turtle CQ actively records nesting turtle tracks, nest attempts, successful nests and threats to successful nesting; including evidence of predators and human influence. The data is provided to the Queensland Turtle Conservation Program (QTCP) which has over 50 years of turtle monitoring data for Queensland and is one of the longest-running turtle monitoring projects in the World. QTCP’s data is instrumental in forming management plans for turtle species not just locally but also in adjoining waters.

Read the TTCQ 2022-23 Summary Report

Report a marine turtle nest sighting

If you spot a marine turtle nest or nesting activity on the Capricorn and Curtis Coasts report your sighting. Your findings will assist TTCQ and QTCP with their mission to protect these endangered species.

Follow the link below to report your sighting.

Report a marine turtle nest sighting

Report a marine turtle stranding

To report marine turtle strandings call 1300 130 372 (Press option 1). A Queensland Government officer will contact you for your information and will determine the appropriate response.

Never return a turtle back to the water! If you are concerned call the strandings hotline.

How to tell the difference between stranded or basking marine turtles.

Team Hatchlings say Turtles About, so Lights Out!

This year, FBA and TTCQ invested in teaching the next generation of adults to help turtles survive. The youth arm of TTCQ, aptly named TTCQ Team Hatchlings, has developed a project plan to engage the public and spread these messages about reducing artificial light glow from coastal housing.

TTCQ Team Hatchlings attended markets and school holiday events that were overrun with kids captivated by interactive activities like decorating plywood marine turtles while learning about effects of light pollution. Team Hatchlings have also encouraged kids to write their pledge to reduce light glow at home on a calico bag. Read more about the Team Hatchlings dedicated work in the community informing people how they can improve conditions for marine turtles and their hatchlings.

CQ marine turtle watching guide

From December to March each year, central Queensland beaches erupt with the next generation of marine turtles, and a cohort of people eager to catch a glimpse of this amazing natural spectacle. Follow this guide to give them the best chance at survival.

Learn more