NICKNAMED the ‘humpback highway,’ Hervey Bay’s annual migration of humpback whales is a spectacular sight, showcasing the remarkable recovery of a once-threatened species. Beyond the breathtaking breaches, there’s much more happening beneath the surface.
Dr Owen Coffee, Strandings Coordinator for Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, highlighted the significance of this migration saying the first whales should be seen soon as they embark on their annual journey into warmer waters.
The whales spend months in the cold southern waters to fatten up before heading north to breed and birth in warmer waters.
“When hunting stopped in the sixties, the humpback population was around 500. It has now increased to over 30,000,” Dr Coffee noted.
This incredible conservation success story draws thousands of visitors to Hervey Bay for whale-watching tours each year.
“Seeing whales breaching from a tour boat or the beach is an exhilarating moment that can leave people breathless,” he added.
Boaties in Hervey Bay share the waters with these 40-tonne mammals during migration. Whales can surface unexpectedly or even nudge boats out of curiosity, making it essential for boaties to remain vigilant.
Observing approach limits and understanding that whales are on the move at all times, even at night, can help reduce risks.
In addition to humpbacks, our waters are home to a variety of other whale and dolphin species. From January 2021 to December 2023, strandings for 15 different species were recorded along the Queensland coast.
While humpbacks are the most famous, other species like sperm whales, false killer whales, pilot whales, Bryde’s whales, and minke whales also navigate the Queensland waters. Tragically, strandings sometimes occur, such as the 2013 stranding of a pod of killer whales near Wide Bay.
“During the annual migration, keep a lookout for whales and observe approach and speed limits,” Dr. Coffee advised.
Marine strandings should be reported to the department at 1300 130 372. For more information about the annual migration and approach limits, visit: Queensland Government - Watching Marine Mammals.