More than 5,000 whales were spotted on their pilgrimage north on Sunday, June 25, as the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) held its 24th annual Census Day.
With 3,251 spotted during last year’s census, this year’s total of 5,092 represents a 57 per cent increase, with more expected to be added as a few last whale watchers log their sightings online.
The day saw hundreds of Central Coast whale watchers join fellow enthusiasts from Sydney to the Gold Coast from as early as 5.30am.
Conditions were perfect, with the wind staying away until the late afternoon, and swell minimal at most coastal locations.
The ORRCA Census Day has been run every year since 2000, providing a valuable opportunity for members of the public to engage in citizen science, learn more about whales and their management, and to also learn about ORRCA’s work.
Due to the overwhelming response to this year’s event, a second census and picnic day will be held for the southern migration in September – giving participants the opportunity to see whales and their calves travel south from warmer waters, with more details to be released in coming months.
As an all-volunteer organisation focused on the conservation, protection and welfare of whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs in Australian waters, ORRCA relies on the support of the Australian community, maintaining a network of trained rescuers who respond to marine mammal incidents around the clock, throughout the year.
ORRCA’s work is diverse, ranging from single rescue incidents in local areas to providing support during internationally recognised incidents in remote locations.
ORRCA is the only volunteer marine mammal rescue group licensed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to carry out rescue and research activities involving marine mammals.
It receives no regular government funding, relying on community and business assistance to sustain its efforts.
For those wishing to become involved, a range of opportunities are available – including the opportunity to become a rescue trained member.
Details of ORRCA’s training season can be found at orrca.org.au.
ORRCA asks members of the public to report all injured, stranded, or entangled marine mammals to the Rescue Hotline on 9415 3333.
Source:
ORRCA