Dugongs focus of family event

Moreton Bay’s dugongs, commonly known as ‘sea cows’, will be in the spotlight during a family event at Clontarf on November 24.

The event, to be held at Pelican Park from 10am-2pm, is being organised by Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG).

ESRAG Oceania Chairman Colin Scobie says the event will be a chance to learn more about dugongs, which are an important part of the greater Brisbane landscape.

Colin says the large herd, which calls Moreton Bay home is the only one of its kind in the world so close to such a big city.

“It’s a great asset on our doorstep for people to learn about,” he says.

Colin says it is important people learn about how to preserve the marine mammal, which is threatened by boat strikes and sediment affecting water quality and killing the seagrass it feeds on.

The Family Awareness Dugong Day will feature presentations by marine expert Associate Professor Daryl McPhee, mangrove expert Jack Hill (plus a mangrove tour), indigenous contemporary dance performance by Aunty Sharron Gamiliaraay Wiradyuri and Sista gurl yiri Gamilaraay Wiradyuri, and a presentation by chef Chris Jordan on how to cook with native ingredients.

There will also be a barbecue and raffles.