Over four days, this team of passionate conservationists tackled a 7.5-kilometer stretch of beach, removing a staggering 1.28 tonnes of debris, filling over 320 collection bags.

To the Tiwi, life begins in the sea. With over 1,000kms of remote beaches, bays and estuaries nourishing rich mangrove forests, and an array of diverse marine life including dolphins, dugongs, turtles and crocodiles, the Tiwi Islands are one of the most precious marine environments in the country.

The expedition, held from July 12 to July 15, 2024, was a shining example of what can be achieved when communities and organisations come together with a common goal: protecting our oceans. The project not only removed significant amounts of harmful debris from the environment but also highlighted the ongoing threats faced by marine life due to plastic pollution.

Massive Effort and Impressive Results

Upon the crew’s arrival, they were briefed by the rangers before jumping in 4WDs to head out to Pawnapi, a 2-hour drive from Wurrumiyanga where the rangers are based, to set up camp before heading out to remove a massive 85.6 kilos of debris in just a few hours.

As the cleanup progressed, the density of debris increased, with larger items like buried fishing nets posing significant challenges. Despite these hurdles, the combined efforts of the Sea Shepherd crew and Tiwi Rangers led to impressive daily collections, with one day yielding over 577 kilos from just 3.5 kilometres of beach. An estimated 38,000 pieces of debris were collected during this expedition.

Throughout the cleanup, the team encountered various types of debris, predominantly related to fishing activities, including buoys, floats, ropes, nets, and polystyrene. Common beach litter such as single use bottles, thongs, and lighters were also present. Disturbingly, the team discovered a freshly predated turtle nest, underscoring the immediate threat that debris and other environmental pressures pose to marine wildlife.

Stronger Together

The success of this cleanup was made possible by the strong collaboration between Sea Shepherd and the Tiwi Rangers, supported by the Traditional Owners and local governing bodies. This partnership not only facilitated the removal of a substantial amount of debris, but also fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility for protecting the environment.

The Tiwi Rangers play a crucial role year-round in removing marine debris from the island’s sacred shores - tackling this issue daily using their traditional knowledge and local expertise to try and manage this ever-growing issue. Their involvement ensured that the cleanup was conducted respectfully and effectively, in line with the cultural and environmental values of the Tiwi Islands.

Looking Ahead

This significant cleanup effort serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against marine debris and the importance of sustained, collaborative action. It highlights the critical need for continued support and engagement from both local communities and international organisations to address the pervasive issue of ocean pollution.

By working together, Sea Shepherd and the Tiwi Rangers have demonstrated that even the most daunting environmental challenges can be met with determination and cooperation. Their efforts not only made a tangible impact on Pawnapi Beach but also set a powerful example for future conservation initiatives.

Join us in supporting Sea Shepherd and the Tiwi Rangers as they continue their mission to protect marine life and keep Tiwi Island clean. Together, we can make a difference—one beach at a time.