World Surf League champions pitch in with Nature Conservation Margaret River for coastal rehabilitation

The World Surf League has demonstrated its commitment to helping the environment with some of its top surfers turning out for a coastal busy bee.

Working alongside experts and volunteers from Nature Conservation Margaret River Region and other local groups, professional athletes took part in planting and brushing work before competition started late last week.

Participants included a strong Australian contingent, as well as stars Bettylou Sakura Johnson and Cole Houshmand, among others.

Nature Conservation coastal officer Mandy Polley said the brushing session was a big success.

“It was awesome to be working on coastal rehabilitation on such a perfect autumn afternoon,” she said.

“While surfers enjoyed waves in the background, a motivated team of around 50 people moved a mountain of brush to close unneeded trails at Gas Point, where the activation has been hosted for the last two years.

“Seeing such a diverse group of people come together to help protect our beautiful coastline, and really enjoy themselves doing it, is always such a buzz.”

Also supporting the project were participants in Nature Conservation’s new youth marine stewardship program.

General manager Drew McKenzie said with the region’s population and visitor growth, it was “more important than ever” to have residents act as ambassadors and stewards for the coast.

“The coast is a great source of fun and recreation for many of us, but our goal is to inspire locals to be custodians and stewards for the coast too,” he said.

Mr Mckenzie said coastal pressures were increased by population and tourism growth, as well as climate change.