Sandy Dann IV Shell Stories with Taryn – From Cable Beach to Conservation

Sandy Dann catches up with shell lover and conservationist Taryn for another chat about the treasures of our coastline. This month, Taryn shares what’s been turning up on Cable Beach, from tiny colourful clams to moon snail egg sacs, and why it’s best to admire shells where they are, rather than taking them home. She explains the different types of shells, the meaning behind their ancient names, and how everything from octopus to hermit crabs rely on them for shelter. They also talk about how shell collecting has shifted towards conservation as Broome’s shoreline changes, and Taryn reads a beautiful 1951 story by Pat de Castilla, capturing the joy of shell collecting in years gone by. The conversation ends with a sweet nursery rhyme about a “little shell” and its journey across the sea.