The Capricorn Coast, at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and the Keppel Islands, making it a hotspot for tourists and Reef enthusiasts. However, the Capricorn Coast is also home to thriving coastal communities and strong agriculture sectors. Here, the locals are deeply committed to conserving their environment and fostering skills that empower the next generation of environmental stewards.
In 2020, a Capricorn Coast Community Action Plan was developed by Fitzroy Basin Association (FBA) Capricornia Catchments which brought community, Traditional Owners and youth together to collaboratively plan and deliver community Reef protection actions. The top priority focus areas were to protect coastal ecosystems, reduce emissions, and build youth engagement and stewardship.
Guided by those priorities, two local initiatives are building leadership pathways specifically for youth to be part of the solution from coast to catchment.
The Capricorn Coast is also home to thriving coastal communities and strong agriculture sectors. Credit: Ben and Di
The FBA 'Team Hatchlings' project is a youth-led marine turtle conservation and stewardship initiative supporting passionate youth to develop their leadership skills to plan and implement education and awareness-raising activities within the community.
"Their primary goal is to help educate the community, …when the message comes from them, it's very impactful...I'm personally inspired by their drive and passion," said Sam Price-Rees, the FBA Team Hatchlings Co-ordinator.
Team Hatchlings volunteers, Sienna and Lily, said: "Our main focus last year was on light pollution. It makes me really happy knowing that I'm making a difference for the marine life and turtles."
Volunteers Phoenix and Reef explained: "We take [light] measurements where they hatch… that way we can see which areas have the most light pollution. Then we can communicate with people in those areas."
The 'Team Hatchlings' project is a youth-led marine turtle conservation and stewardship initiative. Credit: Fitzroy Basin Association
The second initiative, led by High Valley Dawn Permaculture (HVDP), immerses young people in practical hands-on experiences to learn about regenerative agriculture, carbon sequestration, bush tucker plant varieties, and the role of land care for Reef protection.
"Permaculture is permanent agriculture… we've got over 1,500 different varieties of food producing plants and medicinal plants in our market garden, food forest and Bush Tucker Forest. …To involve primary school and particularly secondary school students has been part of the plan. They're our change makers, they're our future," said Ross O'Reilly from HVDP.
These two youth projects are building connections from coast to catchment. FBA's Land and Sea Youth Leadership Program students visited the HVDP farm to learn about Reef protection in the catchment. During the field trip, students learned about real life issues and solutions, while developing their leadership skills for actions they can take at home, at school and in their communities to reduce their carbon footprint to protect the Reef.
High Valley Dawn Permaculture is simmering young people in practical hands-on learning experiences. Credit: Fitzroy Basin Association
These two community-driven projects are cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders dedicated to helping the Great Barrier Reef and its unique inhabitants. One project operates within the catchment area, while the other is based along the coastline, working side-by-side to illustrate the intricate connections between land and sea.
Through these projects, youth are learning the importance of every action, realising how local efforts can ripple out into positive impacts on the broader ecosystem. By fostering a deep understanding of environmental stewardship, they are making tangible contributions to the health of the Reef and the vibrant life it supports.
