Boaties urged to leave whales in peace

BOAT operators and canoeists have been urged to steer clear of whales as they pass through Tasmanian waters during their annual migrations.

Kris Carlyon, from the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment’s marine conservation program, said that while the whale migration season offered a chance for a glimpse of these amazing creatures, guidelines needed to be observed.

Dr Carlyon said that on Wednesday a pod of four killer whales, or orcas, were observed harassing two southern right whales off Eaglehawk Neck.

He said healthy right whales normally proved too strong for killer whales, and it was no place for boats or people.

Boats moving at less than 5 knots and with no wake should maintain a distance of 100m from a whale, while vessels under power should not go closer than 300m.

Boats should not approach from either the front or the rear of the animals and should withdraw immediately if whales are disturbed.

“These guidelines are important for public safety but they are also in place to help ensure that the whales do not feel threatened by human activities,” Dr Carlyon said.

“Prior to whaling in the early 1800s, when southern right populations were decimated, Tasmania provided an important calving and congregation area for this endangered species.

“We want them to again feel at home in Tasmanian waters so that they are more likely to visit and breed here, which will hopefully help their populations to recover.”

Sightings should be reported to the Whale Hotline on 0427 942 537.

For viewing guidelines, visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au