A day after World Ocean Day, a whale entanglement off the Illawarra coast came as a stark reminder of the threats facing our marine mammals, writes Jody Langlois, secretary of the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA).
Early on Saturday, June 9, a 10-metre-long humpback whale was reported entangled off the coast of Newcastle, marking another distressing incident in what is shaping up to be a concerning season for whale entanglements along Australia's east coast.
Thanks to the vigilance of community members and the rapid response of ORRCA’s trained volunteers and support agencies, the whale has been sighted multiple times along the coastline since it was initially reported. Efforts to assess and assist the whale are ongoing.
The sex of the whale is uncertain but it is likely not fully mature. It was first sighted trailing 20m of rope with a white buoy from its left pectoral fin. ORRCA cannot speculate on the type of entanglement gear but an assessment may be done if a successful disentanglement occurs.
The whale is currently making its way south with further unconfirmed sightings on Monday afternoon in Gerringong, but strong winds meant it was difficult for ORRCA drone operators to get any confirmed footage.
It is unusual for a whale to be heading south this early into the migration season, so it is likely due to distress. There have been no further sightings of the whale since Monday afternoon and we ask all members of the public along the South Coast to be alert and call our 24/7 Rescue Hotline if they spot any whales they believe to be entangled on (02) 9415 3333.
Each winter, humpback whales undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal on earth, travelling from their feeding grounds in Antarctica to warmer northern waters to breed and give birth. As these majestic animals pass close to our coastline, they face numerous threats – one of the most serious is entanglement.
Entanglement can cause deep lacerations, impaired mobility and immense stress for the whale. While trained response teams are authorised to intervene under strict safety protocols, the whale's best chance of survival begins with timely and accurate reporting by the public.
If you see a whale or other marine mammal in distress, DO NOT attempt to free or approach the animal yourself. Instead, report the sighting immediately to the ORRCA Rescue Hotline on (02) 9415 3333.
Australia's Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans (ORRCA) is an all volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue and conservation of marine mammals, including whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs. With 40 years of experience, we work closely with government agencies, researchers and local communities to protect Australia’s marine mammals.
If you would like to become an ORRCA volunteer or find out more, please head to the website at orrca.org.au.
