Dear Turtle friends At the Sunshine Coast Council’s ordinary meeting held on Thursday the 17th August, it was suggested that the Cottonwood tree be listed as an invasive species on the newly released DRAFT Local Government Area Biosecurity Plan. This is concerning for all Cottonwood tree areas along our coastline, in particular for the Northern end of Shelly Beach. The Cottonwood tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) is a native plant. Its tall dense foliage contributes to essential habitat needed for the survival of the critically endangered Loggerhead Turtle. The density of the Cottonwood trees block artificial light (including house lights) from entering the beach. Artificial lights disorientate hatchlings and deters nesting turtles. Cottonwood trees support dune stability, act as a windbreak, provide a buffer against wave damage, and protect the land behind from salt water intrusion. The cottonwood tree is a pioneer species which is known to populate heavily disturbed areas, such as that which Shelly Beach has experienced. The habitat between Double Island Point and Pumicestone Passage has been identified as critical to the survival of the endangered Loggerhead Turtle. Loggerheads are the predominant laying species on Shelly Beach. See: http://www.environment.gov.au/marine/publications/recovery-plan-marine-turtles-australia-2017. (Refer to page 30.) The Department of Environment and Heritage Protection lists the Cottonwood tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) as a major dune plant. See http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/coastal/ecology/beaches-dunes/beach_conservation.html Please contact council to express that the Cottonwood Tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) is NOT a pest plant and should NOT be listed as an invasive species on the biosecurity plan. Complete the survey or make a submission on the following link. Feedback closes on the 22nd September. https://haveyoursay.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/draft-sunshine-coast-council-local-government-area-biosecurity-plan Thank-you once again from our turtles