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Ale Aid for Hoodie

Warren HatelyAugusta Margaret River Times
Celebrating the launch of the new beer is MRREC's Peta Goodwin, Caroline Hughes from Nature Conservation, and Brewhouse's Iliya Hastings.
Camera IconCelebrating the launch of the new beer is MRREC's Peta Goodwin, Caroline Hughes from Nature Conservation, and Brewhouse's Iliya Hastings. Credit: Warren Hately

In a deal that sounds too good to be true, visitors and residents can help the native hooded plover by drinking a new beer.

Brewhouse Margaret River has teamed up with local conservationists for the second time to support a good cause, with the brewery’s new Plover pale ale on tap.

A dollar from each pint sold during September will support work by Nature Conservation Margaret River, the Margaret River Regional Environment Centre, and WA’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

“Hooded plovers, or ‘Hoodies’ are small coastal birds found along the coast of southern Australia,” Nature Conservation’s Caroline Hughes said.

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“Eleven pairs of hoodies are known to nest and raise their young on coastal beaches between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin.

“Hoodies struggle to find a bit of undisturbed beach to breed and, as a result, their numbers are declining and the species is now listed as vulnerable.”

The birds are particularly endangered during nesting season, with traffic and dogs on local beaches contributing to their decline.

Brewhouse co-founder Iliya Hastings said a partnership two years ago raised valuable money to help the endangered Western ringtail possum.

“It hasn’t been looking too good for the Hoodies over the past few years and we felt like we really needed to do something to help them,” he told the Times.

“Creating a beer in the Hoodies’ honour not only lets us spend money to help protect them, but more importantly raises their profile and awareness so we can better co-exist with them at the beach and ensure that they remain a unique part of our environment.

“These little birds have a huge challenge to breed on some of the most heavily used beaches in the local area,” Mr Hastings said.

“They really need the co-ordinated help of the whole community if they are going to survive.”

The promotion coincides with the start of breeding season, with only about 10 per cent of chicks surviving to adulthood.

Ms Hughes said improved coastal signs were planned in coming months.

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