Earthcare St Kilda

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-05-13 17:10 - 19:15, 2026-05-15 17:10 - 19:15 (Australia/Melbourne)
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 27th April

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count - Breakwater Team
2026-05-13 17:10 - 19:15, 2026-05-15 17:10 - 19:15
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 27th April

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Community Tree Planting traineeship site visit #1
2026-05-15 10:00 - 14:30
For trainees only

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-05-18 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 4th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count – Breakwater Team
2026-05-18 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 4th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-05-20 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
CLOSED FOR PRIVATE BOOKING

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count - Breakwater Team
2026-05-20 17:00 - 19:00

Raft Count – Marina Team
2026-05-22 17:00 - 19:00

Raft Count – Breakwater Team
2026-05-22 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.

As this event takes place on Parks Victoria land, we are required to share your registration details with Parks Victoria after the event to meet their insurance and land‑access requirements.

If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 4th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Intertidal Zone Marine Conservation Event ~ Crabs
2026-05-23 12:30 - 14:30
Register HERE
Join Earthcare and Ecocentre for an on-beach exploration of life in the intertidal zone!
This first event of our 3-part Intertidal Series. For our first event we will look at crabs, with a focus on the invasive Asian Shore Crab. Andrew Christie, president of Marine Care Point Cook will share his expert knowledge on this invasive species, and will teach us how to find, identify and report them. Observations will also contribute to our ongoing INaturalist project.
We will not be snorkelling for this event, but participants will be invited to wade into shallow water to explore the marvellous marine world of Port Phillip Bay.

Event 1: Intertidal Zone ~ Crabs
When: 23rd of May, 12:30 – 2:30pm
Who: Everyone welcome. Children under 16 must be supervised by a parent or guardian. No doggos for this event, please.
Where: Brighton Beach (opposite Brighton Lifesaving Club) in our Volunteer Marine Conservation Zone

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-05-25 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
Closed for Private Booking
Registrations open 5pm, 11th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count – Breakwater Team
2026-05-25 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
Closed for Private Booking
Registrations open 5pm, 11th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count – Marina Team
2026-05-27 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-29 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 11th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count – Breakwater Team
2026-05-27 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-29 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
👉 REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 11th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Tree Planting - Point Ormond
2026-05-31 10:00
Join Earthcare and Ecocentre for Community Planting Days 2026
When: Sun 31st May, 10am
Where: On The Bay Trail, opposite 81 Marine Parade, Elwood. An exact location will be included in your confirmation email
What to bring: water, enclosed footwear, weather-appropriate clothes
Who: Everyone welcome! Families, children, and good doggos on leads all welcome.
Come together and help us make a lasting difference — one native plant at a time 🌿
Earthcare and Ecocentre are hosting six community planting days in winter 2026. We’re inviting the local community to join us, roll up their sleeves and plant native plants that will provide habitat for native animals, help keep our cities cooler, and beautify our local area.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or have never held a shovel, all are welcome — just bring your enthusiasm and we’ll take care of the rest. Let’s grow something beautiful, together 🌱
Register HERE

Raft Count - Breakwater Team
2026-06-01 05:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-03 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-05 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 18th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-06-01 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-03 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-05 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 18th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Breakwater Clean-Up
2026-06-07 10:00 - 12:00
Join us for a meaningful day of conservation as we help clean up the habitat of our beloved St Kilda Little Penguin colony!
Removing rubbish is crucial – plastic waste can be ingested by penguins causing serious health issues, while debris used in nest-building can prevent proper insulation, leaving eggs dangerously cold and wet.
👉 Register HERE
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Registration is ESSENTIAL: No registration means no entry to the breakwater on the day. Once registered via the link you will receive a confirmation email that includes important information.
Time: 10am – 12pm
Age limits: Participants must be 8 years or older (under‑16s MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult).
Price: All our events are free. If someone offers to sell you a ticket please decline and report.
All equipment is provided.
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𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑝𝑖𝑒𝑐𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑢𝑏𝑏𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑐𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑 ℎ𝑒𝑙𝑝𝑠 𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑎 𝑠𝑎𝑓𝑒𝑟, 𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑟 𝑒𝑛𝑣𝑖𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑢𝑖𝑛𝑠. 𝑇𝑜𝑔𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑛, 𝑠𝑎𝑓𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑏𝑖𝑡𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑣𝑒.

Raft Count - Breakwater Team
2026-06-08 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-10 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the St Kilda Breakwater as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: St Kilda Breakwater
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the St Kilda Breakwater

The St Kilda Breakwater has uneven and sometimes unstable surfaces, so sturdy, closed‑toe shoes with good grip are essential.
The area is exposed to wind and changing weather conditions, especially around sunset
During the return walk after the count, you will be walking through an active Little Penguin colony. This section of the breakwater is dimly lit, and you may encounter:

– Penguins crossing the path or resting beside the rocks
– Trip hazards such as unstable rocks, branches, and narrow walkways
– Occasional wet or slippery patches from waves or penguin activity
Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Parks Victoria for providing access to the breakwater, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Participants must be 8+ years (participants under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
Working with Children’s check required for participants aged 18+
To join this team you will need to have/create a Park Connect account

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda and a Park Connect account are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 25th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Raft Count - Marina Team
2026-06-08 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-10 17:00 - 19:00
Join us in counting Little Penguins in St Kilda and learn from our dedicated volunteers about this unique colony!
As a citizen scientist, you’ll join one of two small teams – each made up of five participants and one team leader. You’ll help manually count the number of penguins in each raft (a group of penguins in the water) as they return home at sunset. This non‑intrusive study collects valuable long‑term data on penguin arrival patterns and population trends. Your observations directly contribute to protecting and understanding the Little Penguin colony in St Kilda.

What’s Involved

Manually count penguin rafts (groups of penguins in the water) from the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina as they arrive at sunset
Contribute valuable data to long‑term monitoring of arrival patterns and population trends
Support the conservation of Melbourne’s unique Little Penguin colony through hands‑on citizen science
Experience these remarkable birds up close while learning from trained Earthcare volunteers

Program details

Duration: Approximately 2 hours
When: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings
Start Time: Begins 15 minutes before sunset (exact time varies with season)
Where: Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina
What to bring: warm clothes, closed toe shoes, water, binoculars (optional).

Site Information
Location: End of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron Marina

You’ll be stationed on a floating platform surrounded by water. The platform may move slightly due to its floating nature
From this position, you’ll get an excellent view of the penguins in the water as they make their way to the breakwater to nest.
You will also be able to spot penguins on the breakwater using a red light torch provided by your team leader

Earthcare St Kilda gratefully acknowledges the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron for providing access to the marina, enabling this important citizen science program to take place.

Requirements

No experience needed
Must be 18 years or older

Registrations through Earthcare St Kilda are ESSENTIAL.
If you have any questions, please contact research@earthcarestkilda.org.au
REGISTER HERE
Registrations open 5pm, 25th May

Earthcare St Kilda acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where this program takes place. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.
