Charles Darwin’s birthday, which falls on 12 February, is generally used to highlight Darwin’s contributions to science and to promote science in general. To commemorate his achievements, the Club will head to Point Peron this year, to go snorkelling and discover and learn about the underwater biodiversity at this location. RSVP required for this event.

There will be plenty to discover: near shore seagrass shelters sea urchins and sea anemones, other inhabitants of the shallow sandy areas include turban shells, sea stars and spider crabs. If we swim out to the fringing reef we may discover schools of fish such as whiting and baitfish. Point Peron and Mushroom Rock are ideal snorkelling sites as the limestone has been carved into numerous overhangs, small caves and swim-throughs very close to shore in a maximum depth of five metres. Colourful sponges, sea squirts, feather stars, lacy bryozoans and hard corals can be found clinging to the limestone.

Where: Cape Peron last car park (turn left at the end of Point Peron Road, Rockingham and follow road to the loop to park).

Time: 8.30am

Bring: snorkelling gear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen etc.), drinks and food, identification books, camera.