Have you ever wondered what those horse-shoe shaped jelly things are? If sharks lay eggs? What shells are what? Why algae comes in different colours? These questions and more will be answered by Bellarine Catchment Network at this free, family-friendly Nature Cadets activity.

Nature Cadets is an after-school program run by Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management designed to teach families about the natural environment and animals.

This activity is aimed at both children and adults so all are welcome. Adults need to accompany children under 12 and supervise children at all times. There are limited spots available so please register.

What's involved: Participants will go on a beachcomb lead by experienced staff, looking for creatures and artefacts along the shoreline. Participants can enter the water up to their knees if wearing booties (either BYO or provided) and if conditions are appropriate, participants can also use provided aquascopes (e.g., plastic underwater viewing device - see image below). Participants will receive educational resources such as posters, brochures and more at the end of the session.

Please BYO: hat, sunscreen, water and booties or enclosed shoes like sneakers (no flip flops or sandals). It is suggested to wear bathers or shorts if intending to enter the water.

Access: Drive down to Lower Bluff and park at the first car parking on the left. Walk towards the beach where you will see Bellarine Catchment Network staff. This activity will be run along the shoreline, but is accessible for those in wheelchairs via a gravel track. Facilitators can accommodate those with additional needs. The event will be run in English but please contact us if you require support as we work to accommodate everyone.

Note: Please do not attend if you are unwell. This event is also subject to weather conditions and will be postponed if weather is not safe or unfavourable. All participants will be notified 24 hours before.

This event is supported by the Bellarine Bayside who take care of Lower Bluff in St Leonards.

Bellarine Catchment Network acknowledges the Wadawurrung; Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community.

We are committed to ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their ability, cultural background, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, intersex status or sexual orientation.