MARINE BUSINESS NEWS
NEWS UPDATE
23 June 2023
Publishers note
I have been told not to talk about it, but it’s hard not to mention. The cold snap engulfing most of our country has been extraordinary. What is interesting is the number of people that are still out and about boating. I live within very close proximity to two boat ramps, and both seem to be abuzz irrespective of the weather.
I have referred to research previously with hard facts, but it’s also good to listen to people as well. I hear that much of the boating activity has been primarily for two reasons.
Firstly, the fishing is good. That’s what I’m told but can’t say my efforts of late have proven that to be correct.
Secondly, the whale watching, particularly down the east coast, has been extraordinary this year. A simple Google or Social Media search shows the fascinating sights Aussies, and our visiting guests, are enjoying.
Whale watching can be done in several ways. From the many vantage points from our shoreline, from one of the many charter operators, or with your own boat. If you are venturing out in your own boat, make sure you understand the advice and regulations pertaining to your own state. Typically, powerboats, sailing boats and paddlecraft must keep a minimum distance from whales of 100m, or 300m if there are calves. You must travel at a constant slow speed and leave minimal wash within 300m of whales.
Speaking of whales. Our internationally famous rare albino whale Migaloo has possibly been sighted. Migaloo was first seen in Byron Bay in 1991 and a regular sight until 2020 when it seems to have disappeared. Migaloo is one of the 35,000 whales that leave the frigid waters of Antarctica and begin the world's longest mammal migration, a 5,000-kilometre journey to the warm waters of northern Australia where they mate, calve and nurture their newborns.
So there have been two possible sightings from aircraft, one off the NSW coast and the other off the Qld coast. I say possible, as it has not been confirmed that it is Migaloo. The theory is that could in fact be another whale simply swimming on its back to bask up the sun onto its white belly. If a Migaloo sighting is confirmed, we will be sure to share the news with you.
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Stay safe on the water,
Domenic Genua - Publisher
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