The allure of the beach, especially during winter storms, is not just in the crashing waves and the salty breeze, but also in the treasures that wash ashore. For shell collectors, the southern coast of Western Australia (WA) is a treasure trove, offering a diverse range of shells that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to the region's unique marine life. Sherie Van Burgel, a self-proclaimed 'shell-collecting family' matriarch in Albany, 400 kilometres south of Perth, shares her passion for this hobby, which is deeply ingrained in the local culture.
The WA coastline, particularly around Albany, is a haven for shell enthusiasts. Ms. Van Burgel often takes her children to specific beaches known for their abundant and varied shells, especially after storms. The family's house is a testament to their passion, adorned with shell containers filled with beautiful collections. However, the recent experience of a beach covered in piles of shells following a winter storm has raised concerns among collectors.
The diversity of marine life in the Great Southern region is a significant draw for shell collectors. Tim Langlois, a marine biologist at the University of Western Australia, attributes this to the ocean currents and the nutrient composition that washes from the land into the sea. The region is home to a large number of seashells from marine species found only in this area, and the slow growth of these species means there's still much to learn about their diversity. Dr. Langlois highlights the discovery of paper nautilus and ram's horn squid shells as examples of the unique finds.
Despite the allure of collecting these natural wonders, WA has implemented a 10-per-day bag limit for shell collection outside of marine parks. This regulation is not without reason, according to Nathan English, a professor of Environmental Science at Central Queensland University. He emphasizes the importance of nature's role in shell usage, such as providing homes, grit, and building materials for the next generation. Dr. English encourages collectors to take photos or drawings of the shells and leave the actual shells behind, allowing nature to continue its work.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development allows for exemptions in shell collection for artistic purposes. For Ms. Van Burgel and her family, shell collecting is more than just a hobby; it's a way to connect with nature and appreciate the coastal environment. She acknowledges the bag limit and ensures the family collects no more than 10 shells at a time, emphasizing the importance of this connection to the ocean and nature. The old saying about putting a shell to your ear to hear the ocean's magic resonates with her, highlighting the deeper connection that shell collecting fosters.
