Amazing visitors: shorebirds back for summer

They are our most fascinating tourists, but how much do you know about them?

It’s almost time to welcome migratory shorebirds back to the Sunshine Coast!

Sunshine Coast Council invites our community to celebrate their arrival with two free family-friendly events that will be jam-packed with fun activities for everyone.

From face painting, art and craft to shorebird exhibits, there's something for every little adventurer.

Join us at Fraser Park, Golden Beach, on September 21, and at Cotton Tree Park, Maroochydore, on September 22, to learn about the amazing journey migratory shorebirds take to return to their summer home and the threats to survival they face.

Join a guided shorebird walk or help our shorebirds by joining the beach clean ups which will be held in collaboration with Visionary Ocean Warriors.

Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Tim Burns invited residents and visitors to learn how we can share our shores with the shorebirds.

“This festival is an opportunity for us to all learn more about these little miracles and how we can live with them in a wildlife friendly biosphere,” Cr Burns said.

Why migratory shorebirds are so special

“Migratory shorebirds are the world’s most threatened species of birds flying more than 10,000km from Siberia and Alaska all the way to our Sunshine Coast shoreline.

“These amazing birds spend most of their time feeding on the mudflats and sandbanks of the Pumicestone Passage and Maroochy River, as they need to more than double their body weight to store essential energy for their long journey back.

“So, bring your family and friends to enjoy delicious food and coffee, play games and join us to celebrate the endurance and determination of these birds”.

The Shorebird Conservation Action Plan guides Council’s contribution to the world-wide conservation efforts to protect these species.

You are invited to the Shorebird Festival

The Shorebird Festival will be held in two locations over two days:

• Fraser Park, The Esplanade, Golden Beach

September 21, 8am – 12noon

• Cotton Tree Park, Cotton Tree Parade, Maroochydore (pool end)

September 22, 8am – 12noon

If you can’t make the event, remember these tips to help share our shores with the shorebirds by:

•           observing from a distance using binoculars

•           choosing a location away from the birds for your activities (onshore and on water)

•           keeping dogs under control

•           taking your rubbish home.

Secure your free tickets to the shorebird festival at events.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au by searching “shorebirds”.