It’s that time of the year again – the Southern Right Whales are about to arrive on the Fleurieu Peninsula and Victor Harbor is set to become a hub for whale enthusiasts from around the world with the launch of the annual Winter Whale Fest.
Starting on Friday, 26 May and running through to Sunday, 25 June 2023, the Winter Whale Fest offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the spectacular Southern Right Whales as they make their annual migration to South Australian waters.
But it’s more than a mere whale watching event. This month-long festival of fun and thought provoking events not only celebrates the arrival of the Southern Right Whales, but has been crafted to engage and educate visitors about whale conservation, the marine environment, and the local culture and community.
With more than 25 events thoughtfully curated, the Winter Whale Fest is a rare opportunity to hear and learn from marine conservation thought leaders, immerse yourself in the magic of the marine world firsthand, and participate in a range of educational and cultural experiences.
The program will kick off with a traditional Ramindjeri Welcoming the Whales and Smoking Ceremony on Sunday, 28 May 2023. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a cultural ceremony, while learning about the Ramindjeri dreamtime story of Kondoli the whale, as well as the cultural significance of the Southern Right Whales to the local community.
From there, the program offers an inspiring and informative lineup of talks showcasing thinkers, advocates, artists and conservation thought leaders who are at the forefront of marine conservation. From the pioneering conservationist Valerie Taylor to the renowned marine scientist Dr. Mike Bossley, the Winter Whale Fest program features an impressive list of experts who will share their insights and experiences.
These enlightening talks will cover a diverse range of topics, including the latest research in whale biology, conservation efforts, marine protected areas, and the impact of climate change on our oceans. This is a rare opportunity to learn from the best and gain a deeper understanding of the incredible creatures that call our oceans home.
If you’re looking for more immersive experiences, the festival offers a range of opportunities for visitors to experience the magic of the marine world firsthand.
Take a rare and unforgettable opportunity to snorkel around Granite Island or join a unique guided tour that takes you across the waters from Pultang-Victor Harbor to Kaiki-Granite Island with Ngarrindjeri leaders.
Whale-themed Paint and Sip workshops, whale art trails, immersive VR experiences, basket weaving and Ngarrindjeri language workshops are just a few of the many activities on offer for visitors of all ages.
For families, there are plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained and leave them inspired, including VR experiences, junior whale spotter training sessions, and a chance to explore the inside of Kondoli, the giant inflatable whale.
The festival will draw to a close with a special event featuring updates from Sea Shepherd and the Wilderness Society on current campaigns, as well as the opportunity to learn about the future direction of the Winter Whale Fest.
Key events include:
➔ Snorkel Granite Island, a rare opportunity to experience the island’s underwater world and see marine life up close.
➔ Kondoli-Whale Journey to Granite Island, a guided tour that takes you across the waters from Pultang-Victor Harbor to Kaike-Granite Island with Ngarrindjeri leaders.
Can’t make the festival? Don’t worry, regular sightings occur between June and September. So even if you can’t make it to the Winter Whalefest, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the Southern Right Whales along the Fleurieu Peninsula coastline during their annual migration season.
For more information about the Winter Whale Fest program and events, please click here.
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