Chasing Sea Dragons on the Mornington Peninsula

By Caz Hathery

On Monday morning, nine participants and three staff set off happily on a five-day adventure: Chasing Sea Dragons on the Mornington Peninsula.

We arrived at The Briars for lunch and enjoyed a relaxing walk. Along the way, we stopped at viewing boxes overlooking the wetlands, where we spotted a variety of water birds. It was a peaceful and scenic start to our journey.

The next day, we embarked on the Millionaire’s Walk along the beach, marveling at the amazing dream homes perched on cliffs, owned by the elite. Later, we went snorkeling at Portsea Pier. Although the sea was a bit rough, it was a wondrous experience to explore the underwater world. While no Sea Dragons were spotted that day, the beauty beneath the waves made it worthwhile.

Day three took us to the Mornington Market, where we wandered through many interesting stalls. Xander treated us to chips for lunch, which we enjoyed on Rosebud Pier. Some of us ventured back into the water for another snorkeling session under the pier. There was a lot of excitement as some participants spotted seahorses—a truly magical moment!

In the evening, we gathered for a barbecue at Hastings Foreshore Reserve. The delicious meal was capped off with an incredible cake that Xander brought to celebrate one participant’s birthday. It was a lovely way to end the day.

On day four, we visited Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary in Flinders, a remarkable reef shaped like a mushroom. We spent time exploring the fascinating rock pools before heading to Cape Schanck for the Lighthouse Loop Walk.

Dinner that night was a treat: scrumptious pizzas that everyone thoroughly enjoyed. One of the trip’s highlights came as we watched an echidna emerge from the bush. To our amazement, it waddled across the brush and sand before venturing into the sea for a swim! Afterward, it trekked back to the bush, likely in search of a well-deserved ant feast. Witnessing this determined little creature in action was a once-in-a-lifetime experience we’ll never forget.

All in all, it was an interesting and fun-filled week that everyone enjoyed immensely.

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