SEA turtle hatchlings are beginning to emerge from their nests across the Tweed and a free information session for the community will help ensure as many hatchlings make it to the ocean as possible.

After a great community response to the turtle information session held in December 2019, staff from the NSW TurtleWatch Program are returning to update the community about the current sea turtle nesting season.

Sea turtle hatchlings begin to emerge on local beaches anytime in January and continue through until May. NSW TurtleWatch Project Officer Holly West said hatchlings could be affected by light pollution, marine debris, predators and coastal erosion.

"Locals can help by keeping our beaches clear of marine debris that can easily entangle hatchlings or that they may later eat when they enter the ocean," Ms West said.

"It is estimated that only one out of 1000 hatchlings survive to reach maturity, so every hatchling we can assist into the ocean can help to make a difference," she said.

The community information session is on Saturday, February 15, from 10am-12pm (NSW time). It will be held at Kingscliff Community Hall, 81 Marine Parade, Kingscliff.

For more information about the TurtleWatch program, email turtlewatchnsw@gmail .com, or visit seabirdrescue .org.au.