Chris Perrott, a Narooma local and NCMG member, added greatly to the experience by snorkelling in the chilly inlet and bringing up various things for people to get a close look. 

There were at least three species of nudibranchs and their bright orange egg frills and several small bubble shells with their beautiful iridescent frilly mantles. 

Empty Hairy Mussel and Frilled Oyster shells suggested that seastars had been exerting their muscles to open them and digest the contents. 

However, seastars were not to be found but that may have been because they were hiding or had been eaten.  A large Red Triton (Charonia lampas), a predator on seastars, caught everyone’s attention as they waited for the bright red animal to emerge. 

Chris also found egg strings of sea hares but the molluscs themselves stayed out of sight.  Apparently there were plenty at the Narooma Wharf so look out for them there.  Beware of the purple dye they disgorge when disturbed.

Keep an eye on Nature Coast Marine Group’s Facebook page to find out about future events.