The Beaumaris Bay Fossil site is a national treasure right on our doorstep. One that leading scientists believe may qualify for World Heritage status.
In 1999, Bayside City Council successfully nominated the site for inclusion in Australia’s Register of the National Estate. In the last 10 years, even more fossils have been discovered at Beaumaris Bay than in the previous 100 years. An ancient prehistoric bird, the Pelagornis, was first discovered to have flown over Australia via discovery of a fossil at the Beaumaris Bay Fossil site. There are fossils of prehistoric seals, giant sharks and many other fascinating fauna and flora, with thousands of fossils yet to be discovered in the cliffs, the shore and the seabed.
New knowledge is emerging about the value of blue carbon in stabilising climate. This carbon is absorbed and contained by the seagrasses in the waters of the Beaumaris Bay Fossil Site. This
world renowned fossil site must be preserved for research, education and quiet enjoyment of all, both currently and for future generations.
In 1970, there was a failed attempt to build a marina at the Beaumaris Bay Fossil Site. Now our beautiful bay is under threat again. We already have 2 bayside marinas at Sandringham and Brighton. Do we really need a third?!
BCS is one of the organisations in a consortium, nominating Beaumaris Bay for National Heritage Listing. A/ Prof Vicki Kotsirilos AM has compiled an outstanding submission on behalf of the Consortium.
On February 20th this year at the Bayside Council meeting, an impressive 30 speakers addressed Bayside Council concerning the Beaumaris Bay National Heritage listing submission. The speakers included Vicki Kotsirilos, eminent scientists, artists, many community members and two BCS committee members. All whom highly value our local national treasure and spoke passionately on the subject. So passionately, that Bayside Council voted unanimously to support the application. On March 26th, we were pleased to hear that our neighbours, Kingston City Council also voted in support.
The information presented to both Councils included the significance of the historical and indigenous, scientific (paleontological and geological), artistic, and cultural knowledge about the Beaumaris Bay Fossil Site. We are heartened by this outcome and remain positive that the nomination will soon turn to a reality.