Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue Inc

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Ballina, NSW
Australian Seabird & Turtle Rescue Inc

We rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured sea turtles, seabirds, shorebirds and sea snake.
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ASTR's objective is to reduce the human impact on wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation, education and research.

17/11/2024

ATTENTION TWEED TURTLEWATCHERS!

We have had our second nesting attempt for the season in the Tweed area last night. Investigation of the site revealed that this was a false crawl. Often nesting females that false crawl, will try again in the coming nights. This female could return to any of the beaches in the Casuarina, Cabarita, South Kingscliff, Hastings Point or Cudgen area. So, we are putting the call out for any of our Tweed TurtleWatchers to be on the lookout and monitoring for any signs of her return. If you see a nesting turtle, turtle tracks or a suspected nest, please call our 24 hour TurtleWatch hotline IMMEDIATELY on 0447 877 149.

📸 Sara

15/11/2024

Benny, a resilient sea turtle, was recently rescued from Casuarina Beach after he was found stranded and covered in barnacles. Upon his rescue, we discovered a flipper tag, allowing us to identify him as the very same Benny who had been released back into the ocean in December 2023.

After his rescue, Benny was brought to the dedicated team at Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital for a full assessment. Blood tests indicated he was dealing with multiple health issues, and the team quickly stepped in to provide intravenous fluids and antibiotics. Now back in our care, Benny is continuing his antibiotic treatment and rehabilitation. He’ll return to BBWH soon for a follow-up to check on his progress, and we’ll keep you updated on his journey.

Benny is currently seeking a sponsor to support his recovery. If you’d like to sponsor Benny or learn more about our sponsorship program, please reach out to us at [email protected].

Take a look at Benny’s incredible progress! Compare his photos from when he first came into our care to the latest ones taken this week.

14/11/2024

First successful turtle nest of the season 🐢

Early detection of these nests is key for their protection! If you spot a nesting turtle, turtle tracks or a suspected nest, Please call our 24 hour nesting hotline immediately on 0447 877 149 to report!

Want to become a citizen scientist and help monitor beaches for nesting turtles contact [email protected]

12/11/2024

New biofilter to keep the turtle tanks clean...thanks to funding from Queensland Airports Community Benefit Fund. Custom made by Pure Aquatics.

12/11/2024

Would you like to join our hospital or rescue and transport team!

We are urgently needing volunteers to join our volunteer team.

🌟 Help rescue and transport sea turtles, seabird & shorebirds.
🌟 Help rehabilitate sick and injured sea turtles and seabirds.
🌟 Be supported by a small team of rescuers and hospital volunteers.
🌟 Training will be provided.

If this sounds like you or someone you know or you want to know more information contact [email protected].

11/11/2024

Would you like to sponsor a turtle?

Sponsoring a turtle with us is a one-of-a-kind experience — personalized, educational, and filled with meaningful updates about your turtle's journey. The most rewarding part is knowing that your support makes it possible for vulnerable and endangered sea turtles to receive the care, rehabilitation, and eventual release they need to return to their ocean home.

Our turtle sponsorship program is ideal for individuals, businesses, fundraising projects, or groups of friends and family who want to come together to make a real difference in a turtle's life.

If you're ready to sponsor a turtle or have any questions, please reach out today. [email protected]
There are turtles waiting for you! 🐢

09/11/2024

Spruiking what we do at the Rotary Duck Race. Sunday till 3pm come and check it out

08/11/2024

A new spin on sustainability at ASTR...aquaponics. Silver perch in the tanks below supply nutrients to plants above. Plants feed turtles and fish feed pelicans...well that's the plan but no doubt they'll just become pets. Funded by the Hamer Sprout Fund 🙌

02/11/2024

22/10/2024

Last week, our Assistant General Manager Amanda and Merryn, our Project Officer for NSW TurtleWatch - Citizen Science Nesting Program, had the chance to present at the Australian Marine Turtle Symposium in Townsville.

Amanda shared some incredible insights from a decade of rescue efforts in her talk on Turtle Stranding in NSW and also gave us a glimpse into her ongoing research on Ecotoxicology in Sea Turtle tissues. This project is a collaboration with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Southern Cross University.

Merryn spoke about the NSW TurtleWatch Citizen Science Nest Monitoring Program, highlighting how communities in NSW are stepping up as a catalyst for protecting our threatened marine turtles.

It was a fantastic symposium, full of informative presentations, and we had the opportunity to connect with researchers, organizations, and turtle lovers from all over Australia, New Caledonia, and Papua New Guinea.

14/10/2024

It’s that time of year again.Shearwaters are migrating from the northern hemisphere.

We usually receive lots of calls to rescue stranded (exhausted) Shearwaters. Same-same for this year …but different...potentially.

Northern hemisphere bird life has seen significant cases of bird flu, cascading to mammals (esp. seals). If you see Shearwaters, please do not handle them, or let pets near them. Government experts advise to call their hotline (1800 675 888) if you come across more than 5 dead birds…or call us for advice with stranded live birds where we will have some rescue capacity 0428 862 852.

01/10/2024

How adorable are our newest patients? Can you guess their species?

If you guessed baby Silvergulls (commonly known as seagulls), you're spot on!

Meet Melon, Honey, and Rocky—three little Silvergull babies rescued from Yamba. They were discovered in their nest on the beach, and we suspect they may have been moved there from a boat.

These little ones are receiving VIP treatment, flexing their vocal cords all day/night, and growing bigger each day. They will continue their journey here with us until they are able to be released.

We absolutely adore having them in our care.

29/09/2024

A recent release of Henry the Pelican. We receive loads of support to help rescue and rehab wildlife. The New South Wales Wildlife Council (NWC) recently supported us to buy these rescue carriers...thankyou NWC for the ongoing support you extend to ASTR and wildlife carers t/out NSW.
New South Wales Wildlife Council

22/09/2024

✨ Meet Bubbles ✨

Bubbles came into our care at the end of August after being rescued from Belongil Beach, Byron Bay. He was spotted struggling in the surf, unable to dive or swim beyond the shoreline. Upon rescue and a thorough assessment, it was determined that Bubbles was suffering from floating syndrome, with a heavy epibiota load of barnacles and marine leeches. Additionally, his carapace scutes were lifting.

He was taken to Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital for a veterinary evaluation. There, the team discovered changes to his lungs, the presence of air in his coelomic cavity, as well as blood results indicating signs of inflammation, infection, and mild anemia. Bubbles was swiftly started on medication and has been receiving weekly check-ups since.

We’re happy to report that Bubbles is now gaining weight, swimming confidently in his tank, and showing remarkable progress. We expect it will only be a few more days until he’s no longer floating!

Please send him all your love ❤

21/09/2024

✨ Meet our volunteers ✨

For nearly three years, Tom has generously dedicated his time and expertise to our team, and we truly feel fortunate to have him with us. His deep understanding of how the hospital operates, coupled with his vast knowledge of animal care, makes him an indispensable member of our volunteer family.

Tom consistently steps up when needed, always willing to lend a helping hand and mentor our new volunteers. His approachable nature, combined with his hardworking spirit, makes him a joy to work with, whether it’s sharing a chat or tackling the day’s challenges.

His experience across all areas of rehabilitation is invaluable, and we couldn’t imagine our team without him. We are so grateful to have Tom as part of our community.

Address

264 North Creek Road
Ballina, NSW
2478

Telephone

+61 2 6686 2852

Website

http://www.seabirdrescue.org.au/

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Videos

Last Friday, our beautiful juvenile Crested Tern, 'IO,' was released back into the wild at Kingscliff. IO came into our care on October 26th after being rescued by Mary from Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers. He was found on the beach in Casuarina, unable to fly, underweight, and in poor body condition. After an initial assessment by the amazing team at Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, it was confirmed that IO had no major issues apart from being underweight and having a low body condition score. Back in our care, we focused on his rehabilitation. IO had a minor issue with waterproofing, but we resolved it, helped him gain the weight he needed, and ensured he was ready to return to the wild. After three weeks of care, IO was cleared for release and joyfully rejoined his flock. Moments like these make all the hard work worthwhile! Check out the before and after photos to see IO's amazing transformation. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #crestedtern

Today, our beautiful big juvenile Australian Pelican "Lux" was released back into the wild. He came into our care after being rescued after ingesting a hook. He was taken to the amazing team Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital, where they found him to have three hooks in the proventriculus. They were able to remove the hooks, and then he came into our care for the past 10 days to allow the surgical site to heal. Today, he was cleared for release, and he was so ready to go home. Stay safe out there, Lux 💚 #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #australianpelican #pelican #pelicanrescue #pelicanrelease

Yesterday, we released 5 turtles back into the wild. Paris, Saylor, Bubbles, River, and Ivan (we have a separate release video for Ivan). We absolutely love turtle release days, and nothing beats seeing them go back home. Thank you to the amazing staff Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital for all their help in getting these turtles back into the wild. Thank you to everyone involved in their rehabilitation journey and a big thank you to their sponsors. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #turtletuesday

Our team recently rescued a Silvergull from Ocean Shores that had a fishing hook lodged in its cheek, a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by discarded fishing lines and hooks. Upon arrival at ASTR, our skilled staff swiftly assessed the bird's condition and made the critical decision to remove the hook. After carefully cleaning the wound, we were able to safely soft release the Silvergull back into the wild right here on our property. This rescue highlights the importance of responsible fishing practices and the dedicated efforts of our team to protect and heal our precious wildlife. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue #seabirds #seagulls #silvergull

Today, we released Nelly and Ocean back into the wild. We absolutely love turtle release days, and these two were so ready to go home. Thank you to the amazing staff Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital for all their help in getting these turtles back into the wild. Thank you to everyone involved in their rehabilitation journey and a big thank you to their sponsors. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #turtletuesday

Today, we released a juvenile green sea turtle back home at Cook Island, Fingal. A massive shout out to Dave and Tam Tweed Gold Coast dive charters for getting us out there on such short notice, we couldn't do what we do without your support. You go above and beyond in helping us get the animals back out into the wild. If you come across a sick or injured turtle or you're unsure if a turtle is sick or injured, contact us on 0428 862 852 or your local wildlife group for further advice and instructions. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue #turtlerelease #greenseaturtle

Meet "Whiskey," our beautiful Elegant Sea snake currently in care. Although she has some float, she is doing well and very active, and we hope to have her back out in the wild very soon. We will keep you updated on Whiskey as her journey progresses and hopefully share her release in the near future 🤞 #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #greenseaturtles #seasnake #seasnakerehab

Last Friday, our little troublemaker "Henry" was released once again. Fingers crossed, he doesn't get himself into any more trouble, but if he does, we will be here ready to rescue him again. Stay safe, Henry 🙏 #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue

Meet some of our adorable turtle patients currently in care. We have six turtles under our care at the moment. Three of these were brought in last week due to the heavy rain and large swells. During strong winds and big swells, please be vigilant for stranded marine animals on the beach. Avoid putting them back in the water, as they may be in distress and unwell. If you find a stranded turtle, contact our rescue number at 0428 862 852. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #greenseaturtles

What a beautiful way to end a Friday with the release of Chanel, and what a lovely afternoon it was. Chanel has been in our care for 3 weeks after being rescued from Brunswick after we found her limping. Chanel had had a deep wound on her left foot with some pus, dried edges, and a skin tag that needed removal. A single tendon was exposed at the front of the wound. The wound has healed up nicely, and today, she was reunited with her friends. Thank you, Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital for all your help with her recovery. Enjoy your freedom, sassy Chanel, and stay safe 🩷 #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue

Yesterday, our gorgeous "Little Bill" was released back at Wardell. Little bill was rescued with a hook in the commissure of the beak. The amazing team Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital was able to remove the hook and confirm no internal hooks. He came into our care after the hook removal. He was quite skinny, so we kept him to improve his body condition. He was so very cute that our whole team fell in love with him, a big boy with a little bill. Upon his release, he was greeted by some of his pelican friends, and off they swam upstream to the rest of the flock. We will miss you, Little Bill 💚 #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue

Today, our beautiful Australian Pelican "Koko" was released. She received a lovely welcome back from her pelican friends after spending the last four weeks in our care. Koko was rescued from Lennox Head with an injury to her ankle and was not able to put any weight on that foot and was observed hopping along the sand. Once rescued she was taken to the amazing team Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital where she was assessed and found to have a large open wound over her right ankle, her lateral toe on the right foot with a wound on the underside exposing the joint, few minor wounds on the webbing of her right foot and a hook in the ventriculus (stomach). Koko has received continuous veterinary care from the team at BBWH with weekly visits to get her booty changed. Our team has continued to monitor her closely, and we were thrilled to be able to release her today. We all fell in love with her. She was sassy, snappy, and loved when we appeared with fish. Stay safe out there, Koko. we will miss you ❤️ If you come across a pelican or seabird that is injured, please contact us on 0428 862 852. #australianseabirdandturtlerescue #australianseabirdrescue #ballinabyronseaturtlehospital #marinelife #seaturtle #seaturtlerelease #rescue #rehabilitation #pelican #pelicanrescue

Shortcuts

Have you found a Seabird or a Sea turtle that needs rescuing? Our rescue hotline is 0428862852 for northern New South Wales.

Our Head office is based at The Widlifelink Sanctuary in Ballina, known as the North Coast Branch (operating between the Tweed and the Clarence). We also have branches on the south and central coasts.

We are not open to the public but you can book a tour for ten or more people or visit the Wildlifelink Sanctuary during NSW School holidays on weekdays at 10am for a one hour tour .We also have a fresh new website and you can donate there! You can go to the link on the bottom of our new website www.seabirdrescue.org.au Donations are processed by Paymate and we can supply you with a tax deductible receipt if you request one.