Researchers, tourism operators and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority have joined forces to help secure a better future for dwarf minke whales in the Great Barrier Reef.

Revising the code of practice for operators involved with swimming-with-whales activities helps ensure these animals are protected and interactions with them are managed in a sustainable way.

The code of practice applies to the nine tourism operators that currently have a permit to conduct swimming-with-whales activities in the Cairns/Port Douglas area.

Mark Read from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said the code of practice sets out the best way to approach and interact with dwarf minke whales when tourism operators take visitors to swim with the animals.

“By working together we are helping ensure the best interests of the whales are considered as they interact with people in the Marine Park, while allowing tourism operators to give visitors an opportunity to experience these animals face-to-face.

“The recent revisions to the code of practice help ensure these animals are protected and interactions with the whales are managed in a sustainable manner.

“The code of practice also outlines ways to monitor minke whale activity in a standard way so we gain a better insight into their behaviour.

“We believe giving people the opportunity to interact with dwarf minke whales in a safe way allows them to learn about these animals and leads to a greater appreciation of the marine environment.”

Tourism operators are required to supply information on dwarf minke whale encounters to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

This information helps marine managers make informed decisions regarding multiple use activities in the Marine Park.

Pre and post-season workshops involving marine managers, swimming-with-whales endorsed tourism operators and researchers ensure management of this activity is regularly evaluated.

The nine operators are: Aristocat, Floreat Reef Charter, Mike Ball Dive Expeditions, Nimrod Explorer, Poseidon Cruises, Silverseries, Eye to Eye Marine Encounters, Taka Dive and Undersea Explorer.