10,000 Victorian beachgoers enjoy a good Summer by the Sea

14 February, 2012

The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has wrapped up another successful Summer by the Sea program with around 10,000 people taking part.

Coastcare State Coordinator, Amanda Cornish said: “Summer by the Sea is becoming more popular since it started 18 years ago and the 2012 program featured 300 scheduled activities across 80 locations along Victoria’s 2,000 km coastline.”

“Summer by the Sea gives people who love the coast a chance to learn more about Victoria’s unique coastal and marine ecosystems and have some free holiday fun at the same time,” Dr Cornish said.

In 2012’s Summer by the Sea program, holiday makers and residents had the opportunity to volunteer and help protect and maintain Victoria’s coastal areas as well as increase their knowledge of our coastal ecosystems.

Events were run by qualified and experienced local guides and included:

· Kayak Adventure (Beach Road), Beaumaris

· Rockpool Ramble – Marine and Coastal conservation with local ranger, Port Campbell

· Snorkel Safari, Point Lonsdale

· Coastal Discovery – Boat Tour with birdwatching and scientific monitoring, Lakes Entrance

“From Nelson in the west to Mallacoota in the east and beyond, our beautiful coast is open to explore all year round and Summer by the Sea provides yet another chance to experience it.”

“People are also given the opportunity to learn from local experts about the coastal environment and increase their understanding about strategies to conserve the natural wonders of our spectacular coastline.”

The Summer by the Sea festival is run by DSE’s Coastcare program, with the support of volunteers and local experts.

Coastcare Victoria provides support and education to community groups and individuals carrying out coastal protection work through its Community Grants Program.

Summer by the Sea is part of Coastcare Victoria’s Strategy for 2011-15, which aims to help manage and protect Victoria’s coast through engaging with volunteers, building capacity and encouraging participation.