Opening of underwater nature trail at Hillarys

17/3/93

Environment Minister Kevin Minson today opened a new underwater nature trail in the Marmion Marine Park off Hillarys.

The trail at Little Island is the second underwater nature trail in the park.  Boyinaboat Reef, also at Marmion, was the first in Western Australia.

Mr Minson said the new trail was established by the Department of Conservation and Land Management and was sponsored by the Sorrento Quay Dive Shop.

"It is encouraging to see organisations such as Sorrento Quay Dive willing to put an effort into promoting the values of the environment they enjoy," Mr Minson said.

"The trail is suitable for snorkellers as well as divers."

Underwater plaques have been placed around the site to help divers learn more about marine eco-systems and marine life.

"The theme of the underwater nature trail is adaptation," Mr Minson said.

"The plaques describe the various adaptations used by seagrasses, corals and shellfish to survive in the particular conditions of this area."

Australian sea-lions use Little Island to rest.  They often swim and fish in the waters nearby.

Mr Minson said people snorkelling in the waters around the island were usually joined by the inquisitive sea-lions.

He said as long as divers realised that sea-lions were wild animals and respected their space, people and sea-lions could happily co-exist.

Reefs around the island are also inhabited by fish, crabs, shrimps, sea shells and octopuses which camouflage themselves in the seaweed and rocks.

Colourful corals, anemones, jellyfish, seafans and sponges can also be seen.

"The waters of Little Island are normally protected from sea breezes and offer the perfect opportunity for visitors to explore from their boats," Mr Minson said.

Media contact: Diana Callander 222 9595 : 321 2222