Rock Pool Ramble Marine Sanctuary Aireys Inlet March 16, 2024

Reports March 16, 2024

It was a brilliant autumn morning when 22 of our Friends members came along to this special area to share in a Rock Pool Ramble, led by Pete who knows just so much about this marine environment.

Pete welcomes all to the area recognising the traditional owners of the land

Having been introduced to some of the biodiversity of the sanctuary through some of Pete’s great photography it was time to start our adventure.

Just a few suggestions and words of advice before the group set off

… and then it was time to start exploring the rocky reef

Neptune’s Necklace seaweed was very slippery on the rocks

There was plenty to see as people clambered in all directions delving into the rock pools and finding things to share with each other

Hugh and Ollie used their marine knowledge and sharp eyes to find specimens that they were keen to show to the others.

Hugh shows a Wandering Sea Anemone that is covered with bubble-like sacks

There were other smaller sea creatures that people observed – a school of tiny silvery fish swimming in one of the pools

A tiny eel that was found in the rock pool. Handling it very gently Pete put into a container so people could observe

And there were further observations:-

Two Dog Whelk carnivorous sea snails feeding on a Green Mariner

Pete explains about Bull Kelp a very fast growing plant

A walk back from the reef and along the sea shore allowed people to share two further obervations.

An extensive midden on the cliff side - evidence of the early inhabitants of the area — An extensive midden on the cliff side – evidence of the early inhabitants of the area

Entrance to cave with Kelp Flies swarming as boys entered.

It was indeed a great way to spend a few hours relaxing and enjoying the wonderful environment of the Marine Sanctuary and we thank Pete for sharing his knowledge and love of the area.

Margaret MacDonald