What could be better than a lazy Sunday spent whale spotting? Photo: J.Liebschner.
Looking for the perfect lazy Sunday activity – preferably one you can tell yourself is educational for the kids?
Get down to Hill 60 on Sunday and take part in the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) annual Whale Census Day.
This year is the 26th whale census undertaken by ORRCA, and with the humpback whale migration underway, more than 40,000 whales are expected to pass the coastline this winter.
It’s one of the longest-running citizen science projects in the country, and has helped track an enormous increase in the number of whales off our coastline.
In 2002 just over 200 whales were counted in the census – now thousands are spotted.
ORRCA president Ashley Ryan said the data gathered in the census helped support the protection and welfare of whales, and ensured their populations continued to rise.
“Census day is a unique opportunity for Australians to come together in support of marine conservation,” she said.
“Whether you’re a seasoned observer or a first-time participant, every whale sighting contributes to a broader understanding of their movements, behaviours, and habitat use.
“The citizen science data we collect on this day complements the formal research conducted by our ORRCA team throughout the year.
“It also helps us assess which vantage points are most effective in varying weather conditions – crucial information that informs our rescue and response operations.
“It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature, contribute to conservation and celebrate our incredible ocean travellers.”
Land-based whale watching allows for non-invasive monitoring of whale behaviour, offering a unique and respectful way to engage with the natural world while also maintaining a safe distance.
If you’d like to take part you can register a location of your own, or head down to the official ORRCA location in the Illawarra at Hill 60.
To take part in the 2025 ORRCA Whale Census head to ORRCA’s website.
The official Illawarra whale census location is Hill 60, Port Kembla, from sunrise to sunset on Sunday 29 June.
All sightings throughout the day are recorded digitally using an online reporting system, and further details will be provided to registered participants ahead of time.
