Kimberley whale survey trip 2009

Kimberley Wilderness Society Members and Friends whale survey trip 2009 – the opportunity of a lifetime!

Update

The level of interest in the whale survey trip has been amazing  with people  from all over the country expressing their interest. The  trip is now booked out! Want to be involved next year or otherwise support the survey trip? Phone: (08) 9420 7255 Email: joshua.coates@wilderness.org.au

The Kimberley coast is one of the most intact regions in the world; scientists are only just beginning to document the outstanding natural values of the region. Beautiful and extensive fringing coral reefs, vast seagrass beds, mangrove forests and spectacular sponge gardens support an incredible array of marine life in one of the highest tidal range coasts in the world.

Everything from dugong, sawfish and turtles to Australia’s unique dolphin – the snubfin dolphin - all rely on this incredible healthy ecosystem.

The Kimberley coast is a significant humpback whale breeding site. Photo: Annabelle Sandes

Perhaps most majestic of all is the Humpback whale. The ‘Group IV population’ of Humpbacks is the largest in the world and is now recovering following the end of whaling in the 1970’s. It is only in recent years the importance of the Kimberley coast as the maternity ward for this population has begun to be understood. This is their home, where they breed, give birth, suckle and train their young in preparation for the long annual migration to Antarctic waters to feed.

The Wilderness Society is very concerned about proposals for polluting coastal industry that would irreversibly impact on this world-class marine environment. It is important that we increase our understanding of these amazing creatures in order to better protect them and avert the environmental disasters that threaten the region.

In 2008 we helped support Broome-based whale researchers Richard Costin and Annabelle Sandes in undertaking their annual whale survey trips. This is important research, but the great news for you is that it is fun, relaxed and comfortable and the best way to explore the awesome Kimberley coast – and you are invited!

This year we have again organised a Wilderness Society members and friends whale survey trip along the Kimberley coast – in a luxury cruise ship!

The trip will be a great time spent with interesting, informed and like-minded people. We are planning a six day survey with plenty of time set aside to see the spectacular sights of the Kimberley coast.

Imagine yourself cruising through the world famous Horizontal Falls, seeing the waters cascading off Montgomery Reef (one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world), swimming in pristine gorges, witnessing the spectacular geology and red cliffs of the Kimberley coast and of course seeing, photographing and recording the Humpback whales. Last survey we watched hundreds of Humpbacks, some of which chose to come right up to the boat or put on spectacular shows, breaching and swimming with their young. All this aboard a luxury 20 berth cruse ship with Wilderness Society staff, whale researchers and knowledgeable crew ensuring you get all the information and everything else you need to have a great time!

This is one of the most amazing things you will ever do, and the best thing is – you will know you are helping to build our knowledge of the Humpback whales and the special Kimberley coast they call home.

The September trip will be held over the 6-11th September  2009 and will depart from and return to Broome, WA.

The level of interest in the whale survey trip has been amazing  with people  from all over the country expressing their interest. The  trip is now booked out! Want to be involved next year or otherwise support the survey trip? Phone: (08) 9420 7255 Email: joshua.coates@wilderness.org.au

Josh Coates
Kimberley Campaigner, The Wilderness Society WA Inc.
Phone: (08) 9420 7255
Email: joshua.coates@wilderness.org.au

Learn more:
www.wilderness.org.au/articles/working-together-to-save-the-kimberley-whales
www.wilderness.org.au/articles/coral-reefs-of-the-kimberley-a-global-treasure
www.kimberleywhales.com.au/