Thirty-three post hatchling loggerhead turtles will be released into Ningaloo Marine Park tomorrow after being found washed ashore along the south-west coast of Western Australia. The release is part of conservation efforts to help this critically endangered marine species, with only an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 females known to nest annually in WA. The turtles were among 54 found by community members on beaches and reported to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). Once reported, the turtles were taken by the Parks and Wildlife Service to Perth Zoo vets for assessment and transferred to two of the State's turtle rehabilitation centres at AQWA and Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre. When found, these turtles weighed between 100-200 grams and eight months on they now weigh…

The Mesa campground in the popular Cape Range National Park is now open for campers following a $400,000 upgrade. Located in the northern end of the park within the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, the campground overlooks a small north-facing bay and has been a popular spot for campers for decades. The upgrade has seen the development of a new loop road with 23 hard surfaced camping bays and more than 500 metres of paths, which provide access for all to beaches, day use areas, visitor car parks and toilets. The spacious camping/caravan bays are 8m wide by 12m deep, and the new toilet blocks and picnic tables have been designed using materials that are suitable for the coastal environment. The area is now serviced…