The iconic Summer by the Sea program is back on the Surf Coast from 2-26 January with an exciting line up of free activities including popular stand-up paddle boarding and fossil hunting activities.
The 2016 program, hosted by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DEWLP) and Parks Victoria will showcase the diversity of the Victorian coastal environment through more than 250 free activities.
Locally, the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee (GORCC) is funding and leading 20 free activities in Torquay, Jan Juc, Anglesea and Lorne with options ranging from outdoor explorations for the adventurous to craft activities for the creative.
GORCC Education Coordinator Pete Crowcroft said the Summer by the Sea program is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to have fun while learning about the coastal environment.
“The activities are a great way to encourage everyone to get outdoors and enjoy the unique coastal environment the Great Ocean Road has to offer.
“Summer by the Sea is an opportunity to explore and learn about the natural wonders of our spectacular foreshore and GORCC’s 2016 activities include something for everyone.
“Participants can gain an in-depth understanding of what lives on the coast,” he said.
This year the program includes an opportunity to become a ‘conservation officer’ for the morning, joining the GORCC Conservation Team and making a difference to the coastal environment.
“Our new ‘conservation officers’ will experience first-hand what it’s like to be a part of a passionate team making significant contributions to the foreshore environment,” Mr Crowcroft said.
GORCC Education Activity Leader Hilary Bouma said she is excited to take locals and holidaymakers on a coastal discovery to uncover some beach treasures.
“Everything we collect or see along the coast tells us a different story and explains the health of the ecosystem where it was found, which is really amazing.
“It’s wonderful to be able to get people of all ages to engage with our incredible coastline and experience and learn about the precious environment where they live or holiday,” she said.
Summer by the Sea is a partnership program supported by volunteers, not-for-profits, Landcare groups, land managers, small businesses and the State Government.
You can download a flyer detailing times and dates of all GORCC-hosted activities on the Surf Coast here.
Bookings are essential and must be made online. Visit the Summer by the Sea website for more information and to make your booking.
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Blog 