'Creating accessible opportunities to explore the coastline' at Inclusive Biodiversity Day on Portrush's East Strand

The event was held in support of East Strand’s Blue Flag Award.

The free community event brought together people of all ages and abilities to celebrate the rich biodiversity of the Causeway Coast through a wide range of engaging and accessible activities.

With accessibility and inclusion at its heart, the event ensured that everyone could take part in hands-on activities and connect with nature.

Throughout the day, visitors discovered more about local coastal biodiversity and gained a greater appreciation of the habitats and species that contribute to the special character of the Causeway Coast.

Activities included Beach Drums, beachcombing sessions, a guided bird walk and talk, an interactive dune erosion activity, displays showcasing the area’s fascinating marine wildlife, and nature journalling, alongside many other hands-on experiences.

Led by expert partner organisations, these activities encouraged participants to explore the coastline from new perspectives while learning about the importance of protecting its unique habitats, species and landscapes. Families were also able to access adapted equipment, such as all-terrain wheelchairs, enabling them to enjoy the various activities on offer.

The Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust and the Mae Murray Foundation were pleased to work alongside a fantastic range of partner organisations whose support helped make the day such a success.

Interactive activities were delivered by Ulster Wildlife, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the National Trust, the Coastal Zone Centre, the RSPB, Live Here Love Here, and CEDaR (Centre for Environmental Data and Recording).

Kyleigh Lough, Chief Executive Officer of the Mae Murray Foundation, said: “Our partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust demonstrated that nature is for everyone. By removing barriers and creating accessible opportunities to explore the coastline, we welcomed people of all ages and abilities to enjoy, learn about and connect with this remarkable environment.

"It was wonderful to see so many people taking part, discovering new experiences and showing that our natural spaces can be enjoyed by everyone when accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of event planning.”