Turtle nests on Cannonvale Beach

Anyone patrolling Cannonvale Beach would have seen an unusual sight on Sunday evening as a metre-long green turtle was spotted laying her eggs.

The turtle captured the attention of many beach-goers, some inviting more people to witness the sacred sight.

Eco Barge colunteer Emma Ferguson and the Whitsunday Police were called to the scene for protective purposes.

Ms Ferguson, dubbed ‘turtle girl’, said the turtle was first spotted on teh beach two weeks ago and had returned to lay more eggs.

She also said this was the first time she knew of in anyone’s memory that a turtle had laid eggs on Cannonvale Beach.

“It’s quite amazing, isn’t it?” she said.

About 15 people quietly watched the turtle on Sunday night – appreciating nature at its best.

Once the heavily-pregnant turtle had nested about 100 eggs, she turned around and headed straight for the sea.

There wa s a slight hicup when she swam into the stinger net but Ms Ferguson and several members from teh community raced into the water to assist.

Mesh was laid over the eggs on Monday morning and Ms Ferguson said the turtle would return to the beach in two weeks.

This comes as a reminder of turtle nesting season in Queensland betwen December and March.

Anyone who sees an injured sea animal or even nesting turtles should call 1300 ANIMAL to ensure they receive the proper care.