Bowen Hosts Heartwarming Release for Eco Barge and BSTAR Rescued Turtle

On Wednesday 14th August, the sea received a wonderful gift in the shape of a well-rested and recovered turtle.
In June, Chez, a beautiful sea turtle struggling with buoyancy near Bowen’s Yacht Club, was spotted by Joe Bell and other water enthusiasts. They carefully transported her to shore. Tracey Bazzo from Bowen Sea Turtle Assessment and Rehabilitation (BSTAR) was initially unavailable, so wildlife carer Jo Bell took Chez to BSTAR. After emergency care, Chez was transferred to Libby Edge at Eco Barge who does long-term care.
Tracey spoke with great enthusiasm about Libby and Eco Barge, praising the impactful work they do:
“Libby is so fantastic; her volunteers are just phenomenal.”
Last Wednesday, Billie Edge and Tracey released Chez back into the sea after months of adjusting water levels to enhance her buoyancy. Billie, Libby's daughter, transported Chez to Bowen, where she was found. About 300 spectators, including the KIDZ from the beach daycare center in superhero capes, watched the beachside release.
It was a beautiful day. Chez, placed on the sand and smelling the water, made a beeline for it. When she reached the edge, Tracey noted, Chez, “stopped, looked, and as soon as she hit that first little bit of water, she was off!”
Tracey added, that its always daunting releasing a turtle but gives you a “magnificent feeling.”
“Libby’s facility and her volunteers for long term care, you cannot compare with anything else,” Tracey emphasised.
“If it wasn't for Libby, the turtle would not be released.”
Good luck on your new venture Chez!

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Chez in her mode of transportation.
Chez B-lining back to her home in Bowen!