Little Penguin Meeting Summary for August 2024
Friends of Little Penguins Eden, HELP group held its latest meeting on 24th August 2024, chaired by Wendy Noble, with members discussing several ongoing projects and updates.
Key Updates and Actions
Penguin Sound System: The Pelican Box sound system used to attract penguins has been replaced, but technical issues persist. Another sound system will be installed in a few weeks.
Signage: We will be in touch with local authorities about installing penguin signs on Crown Land by November.
Funding and Banners: Efforts are ongoing to secure funding, with members working on a Coreflute sign for the upcoming Whale Festival. The design includes the Eden Little Penguin Fund logo, with input from the Aboriginal Yuin language for “Little Penguin”.
Discovery Trailer and Taxidermy: A Discovery Trailer, managed by Discovery Rangers, will be featured at the Whale Festival.
Volunteer Coordination: Several members are organizing volunteer shifts for the Whale Festival, with efforts to streamline the volunteer sign-up process. Spare keys for access to survey areas will be managed by the team.
Merchandise and Promotions: New merchandise ideas were discussed, including photo boards for children and penguin-themed chopping boards. Plans to improve the group's online presence through the Facebook page and a website are also in progress.
3rd Survey Preparation: Members discussed logistics for the third Little Penguin survey, which will take place at low tide. Safety concerns were emphasized, a member will be tasked with photographing the penguins after completing safety requirements.
Eden Whale Festival
The Whale Festival, set for October 19, will feature the group's Discovery Trailer. Volunteers were assigned shifts, and displays on penguin progress, history, and ongoing projects will be available for attendees. Volunteers are preparing an informational sheet, and there will be a donation box organized by members of the group.
Collaboration and Outreach
Conversations will continue regarding merchandise distributors, and future collaborative opportunities are being explored. It was suggested reaching out to similar penguin conservation groups, such as those on Granite Island in South Australia, which have seen a dramatic decline in their Little Penguin population.
Closing
Nicholas Carlile provided an update on penguin nesting habits, including a report from Bateman’s Bay, where the season seems promising. He shared insights on penguin behaviour in artificial nests and natural habitats.
The meeting wrapped up with a review of recent penguin survey photos, which sparked lively discussions about the group’s progress.
The next steps include further fundraising efforts, finalising Whale Festival preparations, and continuing work on the penguin surveys.
Next Meeting: Saturday, 16th November 2024 at Eden Library
