Connecting Land, Shores and Oceans

The above image was the symbol for the 4th Coastal Conference held in Denmark (WA) - land and sea along the coast were regarded as if through indigenous eyes as a living entity, as country to be protected. Almost 300 delegates from government agencies, educational institutions and community organisations exchanged information about their activities as managers and custodians of the immense coastal areas of WA - no less than 27.000 km (including the islands) of coastline with some 10.000 mainland beaches.

Two committee members of the Cottesloe Coastcare Association received funding to attend the conference to contribute to, share with, and learn from the knowledge and experience of so many committed people caring for our coast. The palpable good will, enthusiasm and willingness for hard work demonstrated by everyone inspired hope and optimism for the future inspite of the huge pressures of increasing numbers of people threatening to 'love our coast to death'.

One whole day was designated as a Community Forum to discuss Coastal Issues, Local Solutions. Some 20 community groups presented projects which showed how caring and committed individuals and small groups can make real differences, especially if they act in partnership with local councils and collaborate with a wide range of agencies. One of the most heart warming sights was a young woman who carried a baby kangaroo around with her in a shoulder bag because the joey still needed four-hourly bottle feeds. She belonged to the WA Seabird Rescue, a small group who rescues injured wildlife - they are in dire need of more helpers: if you would like to become involved, ring 9474 9055!

You can find more information about the conference, the key-note speakers, main issues and suggested solutions on our website: http://www.cottesloecoastcare.org/