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Kurangi Returns Home: JOALI BEING’s Inspiring Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Story

kurangi turtle

JOALI BEING proudly collaborates with the Olive Ridley Project (ORP) to share Kurangi’s remarkable story. She is the first sea turtle to enter the island’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. After receiving nearly six months of dedicated care, Kurangi joyfully returned to the ocean on 2 November 2024, during a special event held at JOALI BEING.

Speaking about the release of Kurangi, Graeme Freeman, General Manager, says,

“Since the opening of JOALI BEING, we have been deeply committed to conserving and preserving the incredible marine habitats that surround us. The successful release of Kurangi marks a major milestone with the opening of our Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre – a long-standing dream made possible through the dedication of our team and the invaluable support by the Olive Ridley Project. Together, we look forward to advancing our efforts to protect and rehabilitate our local sea turtle population.”

Kurangi received her name from the Dhivehi word for the ‘Lesser Noddy,’ a seabird native to the Maldives. Rescuers discovered her in August 2023, entangled in a ghost net in Shaviyani Atoll. Following her rescue, the Olive Ridley Project’s Marine Turtle Rescue Centre in Baa Atoll provided her with urgent medical attention. Unfortunately, she sustained severe injuries to both front flippers, which led to the amputation of her left flipper.

After stabilizing, Kurangi was moved to the Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at JOALI BEING for further recovery. Despite the challenges of buoyancy syndrome, she showed incredible determination throughout her healing journey. To aid her recovery, the resident Sea Turtle Biologist and the Marine Biology team created a personalized rehabilitation plan that included Targeted External Weight Therapy and dive training.

Moreover, commenting about this, Resident Turtle Biologist Abdulla Hameed said:

“Kurangi’s recovery has been remarkable, and I’m immensely proud to have been part of her journey here at JOALI BEING. We wish her all the best as she returns to the ocean, the home where she truly belongs. As we continue our commitment to sea turtle conservation, we look forward to achieving even greater progress in the coming months.”

During her rehabilitation, Kurangi endeared herself to many guests at JOALI BEING, who closely followed her progress and celebrated each milestone. On 2 November 2024, friends and staff gathered to honor her recovery, bidding her a heartfelt farewell as she returned to her ocean home.

Engaging in Sea Turtle Conservation at JOALI BEING

At JOALI BEING, guests have the unique opportunity to engage with the Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where they can learn about turtle care and conservation efforts. Visitors can also symbolically adopt a turtle, which includes an official certificate and monthly updates on the turtle’s journey.

The Rehabilitation Centre emphasizes the importance of community involvement. JOALI BEING invites local residents, including government officials and students, to participate in educational visits. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation and inspire collective action within the community.

The Raa Atoll Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Centre has a dual purpose: rehabilitating turtles while contributing to scientific research. The island is a vital nesting ground for the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle. As a result, JOALI BEING collaborates closely with the Olive Ridley Project to protect turtle nests from disturbances during the nesting season. After the eggs hatch, researchers conduct controlled excavations with permission from local authorities. This process enables them to collect essential data on hatchling survival rates and the factors influencing their outcomes. Such information is essential for advancing our understanding of sea turtle reproductive biology.

Additionally, the resident Turtle Biologist regularly conducts surveys through diving and snorkeling. Using photo-identification techniques, researchers monitor the local sea turtle population in Raa Atoll. Each turtle has a unique facial pattern, similar to a human fingerprint, allowing individual identification. By uploading these images to a central database, scientists can track turtle movements, identify preferred habitats, and analyze population trends. Ultimately, this valuable research provides insight into the challenges faced by these extraordinary sea turtles in their natural environment.

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Discover Art and Festivity at Oaga Art Resort!

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Embark on an extraordinary journey of discovery and celebration at Oaga Art Resort, your retreat for artistic inspiration. Inspired by the tale of castaways who find joy on a hidden island, Oaga becomes a vibrant homage to life and nature. Guests are invited to explore the island’s beauty, engaging in activities like crafting nature-inspired masks and creating eco-friendly art.

Over 25 local and international artists will perform during the festive season as you unwind to the island’s vibrant rhythms. Enjoy a variety of genres, including soulful jazz, electrifying rock, soothing folk, and energizing DJ sets. You can also experience pleasing performances of Bodu Beru, traditional drums that will surely connect with everyone. Lose yourself in the music at the Lost Soirees, where the rhythm of the island pulses through you. Celebrate the New Year at the stunning “Lost in Time” party under the stars, featuring spectacular music and delighting performances. You will unmask your creativity at the Marooned Masquerade Party, a perfect blend of elegance and artistic expression. Join the festive cheer at the Christmas on the Edge party, filled with music and revelry. Finally, celebrate with Beach Bells and Bubbles, where live music, delicious drinks, and stunning views create unforgettable moments.

Delve into Maldivian culture at the vibrant local market, where local artisans showcase their crafts. You can soak in the lively atmosphere while supporting these talented creators. During the Castaway Experience, memorable workshops will be offered on a secluded sandbank, with dance, music, and creativity opportunities. Find harmony at Hoba Spa, where ancient Maldivian healing traditions await you. Relax to the soothing sounds of nature, while enjoying grounding sand therapy and traditional rituals. This experience helps you step into the new year with clarity and intention.

Step into the enchanting realm of Suvaasthi Gallery and Art Studio, where art truly comes alive. Renowned artists will demonstrate their talents, transporting you to a world rich in color and inspiration. Don’t miss the captivating “Watercolour Journals of Nazimbe” exhibition, featuring selected works by acclaimed Maldivian artist Ahmed Nazim. His pieces offer a glimpse into contemplative storytelling. Additionally, Mary Haleem, a celebrated botanical artist, will host a live art demonstration and free-flow art session. Afu, a globally recognized Maldivian artist, will also create a stunning mural that tells the mythical tales of the Maldives.

For little explorers, Fiyoh Club offers exciting activities. They can design castaway costumes, decorate gingerbread dhoanis, and craft eco-friendly art projects. Meanwhile, food lovers will delight in the diverse flavors at Oaga. The island’s bounty transforms into culinary masterpieces, promising unforgettable dining experiences. Savor handcrafted cocktails and exquisite wine pairings that enhance every meal.

Finally, learn about sustainable living at Oaga Art Resort. You can engage in activities like underwater Christmas tree coral planting and ghost net bracelet making. These initiatives help preserve this natural paradise for future generations.

Head over to Oaga Art Resort, where creativity, celebration, and the beauty of nature await you. Your unforgettable adventure begins now!

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