A GROUP of residents living in the government-imposed ‘Red Zone’ has taken a step away from the contamination issue and received a free guided tour through the rock pools of Boat Harbour.

The event was hosted by the Community Wellbeing Program, a group set up by Red Zone residents who saw the importance of community helping the community.

The program aims to produce free events for those dealing with the stresses of the contamination.

The group was led by Jeannie Lawson from Harmony Visions who shared some of her extensive knowledge of the ecosystem of rock pools.

Both adults and children enjoyed the interactive tour, being able to get up close and personal with some of the amazing sea life at Boat Harbour.

Sea stars, sea slugs and red hermit crabs all turned on a show for their visitors.

Julie Bailey, from Salt Ash told News Of The Area, “Being a small group meant we were able to have a really good look and even touch some of the sea animals and plants.”

“Jeannie has such an extensive knowledge of the area that we all walked away not just with a sense of wonderment but also feeling like we learnt something,” she said.

Towards the end of the day, the children present said the best part was being able to touch and see so many animals and finding new and different things.

Jenny Robinson, a resident of Williamtown said, “It was an awesome way to spend a Saturday morning.”

This was one of many free community events set up by the program who have funded free movie nights, yoga classes, a stand up paddle boarding family fun day and much more.

By Simone JOHNSON