TasPorts’ Community Grant Program is preparing to launch its ninth round, supporting projects and initiatives across Tasmania that promote marine protection, maritime heritage, water safety, and community engagement.
Posted
27 August 2025
On Flinders and King Islands, one such project, led by BirdLife Australia’s Seabird Group, is championing the protection of threatened shorebird species while building local awareness.
“Alerting the community to the benefits of protecting key breeding sites will assist ongoing efforts to safeguard these species,” said BirdLife’s Dr Eric Woehler.
TasPorts' Community Grant Program is making a tangible difference to Tasmania’s coastal and marine environments by supporting innovative projects that promote environmental protection and community engagement. Over the past 3 years, TasPorts has invested $350k into the Community Grant Program, supporting 85 grass roots organisations to deliver project that benefit their local communities.
Through local talks and a field trip to Currie on King Island, residents are learning about critical breeding habitats and simple actions to minimise disturbance, such as keeping dogs on leads and restricting 4WD access during nesting season.
“During the visit, which was made possible thanks to the TasPorts grant, some locals expressed interest in joining field surveys, giving them hands-on experience with shorebird monitoring and the threats these birds face,” Dr Woehler continued.
The project focused on raising awareness of coastal birdlife on King and Flinders Islands, both of which support nationally significant populations of resident and migratory shorebirds. Species such as the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover, and Eastern Curlew rely on these coastal areas for breeding and feeding, yet many face pressures from habitat loss, disturbance, and climate change.
The TasPorts Community Grant Program demonstrates the impact of community-driven conservation. By supporting initiatives that connect people with their environment, educate future generations, and protect vital ecosystems, TasPorts is helping secure a sustainable future for Tasmania’s coastlines.
Applications for the next round of the TasPorts Community Grant Program open on 1 August 2025.