Pro Surfer Imogen Caldwell partners with Linneys to support turtle conservation in Western Australia

Professional surfer Imogen Caldwell is riding the wave of conservation with the release of a jewellery collection raising funds for endangered WA sea turtles. In a collaboration with jeweller Linneys, the collection includes a bespoke loggerhead turtle necklace, sales of which will help fund the Gnaraloo Wilderness Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Program. Fifty per cent of the proceeds from the necklaces — available in silver or 18ct white or yellow gold, will go to the charity. The program aims to protect key rookeries and increase the number of sea turtle hatchings surviving until maturity, with current rates at less than one in 1,000. “I am thrilled to have been asked by Linneys to be a part of this incredible project, given my connection to this precious slice of WA coastline and the wildlife it supports,” the Kalbarri-based surfer told The West Australian. “(The) necklace is stunning in its simplicity and looks just like the loggerheads I’ve seen gliding in the waters while out surfing.” The athlete and mum-of-two was raised in Red Bluff near Gnaraloo, before her career took her around the globe, both surfing and modelling in international campaigns for O’Neill. “Not only has Gnaraloo provided a long-time oasis for me, with many summers spent surfing and camping in the region where the desert meets the sea, but it is also a place I have returned to time and again to find inspiration from nature,” Linneys Creative Director Justin Linney added. “I feel passionate about preserving the raw beauty of Gnaraloo, in particular its turtle conservation program. The Loggerhead proved the perfect symbol to base a jewellery piece around and I look forward to the necklaces building awareness around the endangered species and the important role Gnaraloo Wilderness Foundation is playing in their protection.” Three versions of the necklace, which range in price between $550 and $3200, will be launched this week at the jewellers’ King Street showroom as part of its A Piece of You — Bespoke Jewellery Since 1972 collection, which celebrates 50 years of Linneys.