On 23rd May, to celebrate World Turtle Day, Browns Hotels & Resorts (BHR) began a new chapter in marine conservation with the launch of a Sea Turtle Conservation Hub at Dickwella Resort & Spa—its scenic beachfront escape in southern Sri Lanka. Dickwella is a well-known habitat for sea turtles and a hotspot for diving and snorkelling, where visitors can observe marine life in its natural splendour. The establishment of the Conservation Hub in this ecologically significant location marks a key milestone in BHR’s broader sustainability mission to raise awareness on the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and promoting responsible tourism across the island.
The newly unveiled Sea Turtle Conservation Hub has been thoughtfully created to serve as a long-term educational and awareness platform. It features a beautifully designed space with informative and visually engaging signage that details the five sea turtle species found in Sri Lanka—namely the Green Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and the Leatherback Turtle. The panels share fascinating facts about each species, including their identifying features, nesting behaviours, migratory patterns, regional nesting locations across the country, and seasonal life cycles.
“At Browns Hotels & Resorts, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. The Sea Turtle Conservation Hub at Dickwella Resort is more than just an educational space; it’s a hands-on opportunity for tourists, schoolchildren, and local communities to get involved and truly understand the importance of protecting these remarkable creatures.” said Eksath Wijeratne, CEO, Browns Hotels & Resorts.
Dickwella Resort has also introduced community-based initiatives such as plastic and polythene collection points around the area, helping to address pollution—a major threat to turtles and marine biodiversity.
The launch event was a memorable and joyful occasion, hosted by the property’s General Manager, Sisira Senaratne. Among the attendees were officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, students from Batheegama Maha Vidyalaya and the National Vocational Training Institute Thalalla, both foreign and local guests, and special invitees including former Sri Lankan cricketer Romesh Rathnayake.
One of the highlights of the day was an insightful awareness session conducted by D.C. Mahanama, Wildlife Ranger from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, who passionately spoke about the significance of turtle conservation in Sri Lanka. His address was followed by remarks from A.T.R. Ravindra, Officer-in-Charge of the Department’s Matara Division, whose expertise added further depth to the discussion. A creative touch was added with an art competition open to students and guests, where participants were encouraged to express their connection to sea turtles through art.
The day drew to a heartfelt close with the symbolic and moving release of around 100 baby turtles into the ocean under the careful guidance of officers from the Department of Wildlife Conservation. As the hatchlings made their way across the sand and into the waves, it served as a powerful reminder of the role we all play in ensuring the continuity of life beneath the surface. Through this initiative, Browns Hotels & Resorts continues to lead with purpose—blending hospitality with sustainability and inspiring meaningful action for generations to come.
Sea Turtle Conservation Hub at Dickwella Resort & Spa
Sisira Senaratne, General Manager at Dickwella Resort & Spa Unveiling the Sea Turtle Conservation Hub with School Children
Sea turtle hatchling release with the Department of Wildlife
Creative sea turtle themed art competition with school children and guests
Awareness and educational session at the opening of the Sea Turtle Conservation Hub by Dickwella Resort & Spa
