The first sea turtle nest of the breeding season was recently spotted on the New South Wales north coast. The nest was very close to the water’s edge, risking the eggs being washed away by waves and tides. Because loggerhead turtles are endangered, with very few nesting females in NSW, every egg is precious. Green turtles, also found in the area, are listed as vulnerable. Merryn Dunleavy from TurtleWatch NSW stated, "Every nest reported would be safeguarded and the commitment and care from our coastal communities will be essential in ensuring these nests can survive." The public is asked to help as citizen scientists by walking local beaches from Tweed to Batemans Bay early in the morning to look for turtle tracks. These tracks are usually 80 to 100cm wide and may look like tire tracks. TurtleWatch staff, who are trained and licensed, carefully moved the eggs from the first found nest into special cooler-box incubators that helped last season's hatchlings survive. Last season had a record 18 successful nests. Earlier in 2025, ex-tropical cyclone Alfred changed many northern NSW beaches, cutting back dunes and removing good turtle nesting spots. In February, thanks to quick action from National Parks and Wildlife Service and TurtleWatch staff, over 1,000 eggs from nine nests were rescued from the cyclone threat. After hatching, 1,020 baby turtles were released back to their original spots. Prompt reporting of turtle tracks and community awareness are crucial to protect nests through the November to March season. Volunteers are welcome to assist TurtleWatch along the NSW coastline.