2 October 2007

Take care around whales and abide by approach distances – that’s the message from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).

Capricorn Coast Local Marine Advisory Committee Chair Graham Scott said the call comes after dozens of whales were sighted in the Keppel Bay area over the weekend.

“This is an exciting and unusual event for the community and the whales are certainly welcome visitors for people trying to catch a glimpse of these majestic animals, particularly coinciding with school holidays” he said.

Sarah Salmon from the GBRMPA Species Conservation Unit said it was vital to keep a safe distance from whales now making their annual migration south to the Antarctic.

“There are significant safety and legal consequences for ignoring whale approach distances,” she said.

“It is important vessels stay at least 100 metres away from whales in the Marine Park and 300 metres away in the Whitsunday Whale Protection Area.

“Jet skis must stay at least 300 metres away from whales throughout the Marine Park.

“Whale watching regulations are in place to safeguard whales, which are a protected species in Australian waters, from potential boat strikes and other hazards.

“It also gives onlookers the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the animals from a safe distance.

“While whales can be social animals and may approach boats or people in the water, it is important not to approach them for both the safety of the whales and people watching them.

“An adult humpback whale is between 12 to 15 metres long and can weigh up to 40 tonnes.”

There are also a range of other simple practices people should follow when boating in the Marine Park during whale season:

• Keep a lookout and avoid disturbance to mother whales and their calves, especially from May to September
• Reduce your vessel speed to minimise the risk of collision in areas where whales have been sighted
• Abide by approach restrictions - vessels must stay at least 100 metres away from the animal and 300 metres away in the Whitsunday Whale Protection Area, and jet skis must stay at least 300 metres away from the animal throughout the Marine Park
• Do not get in the water if you see a whale - if you are already in the water do not disturb, chase or block the path of a whale and if possible, return to your vessel.
• If there is a sudden change in whale behaviour, move away immediately
• Report sick, injured, stranded or dead whales to the EPA Hotline 1300 130 372.