Local water users reminded to exercise caution around whales and marine life

WHALE SEASON

Last updated: 26/09/2022, 15:00:00 (AEST)

Local water users have been reminded to take care around whales over the next few weeks. Picture: Submitted

The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has reminded Douglas Shire boaties, fishers and jet ski users to practice safe and responsible behaviours these school holidays as whales make their annual pilgrimage through our waters.

Every year, between late autumn and late spring, about 40,000 humpback whales travel up and down the Queensland east coast as part of their annual migration.

During this time, many female whales will give birth to their calves, meaning people can expect to see an increase in young whales during their journey south, which coincides with the September – October school holidays.

It is also common to see other marine life including seals, dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and other species of whales travelling throughout Queensland’s coastal waters at this time of year.

DES Wildlife Officer Carli Lovell said when vessels and marine animals get too close it can pose a serious safety risk to both the community and marine life.

“Since 1 January 2022, DES has received 62 reports of marine animals with boat strike injuries, and it is safe to say there are many more injured animals in our waters that go undetected,” Ms Lovell said.

“The school holidays are the perfect time to get out on the water, experience our beautiful marine areas and see our unique aquatic wildlife, but it’s important to do so from a safe distance.”

DES reminded local boaties and fishers that they must not get closer than 100 metres of a whale and 50 metres of a dolphin.

Jet skis cannot approach within 300 metres of both whales and dolphins.

A $718 fine and other penalties may apply if you breach these approach distances.