Every winter, the coastline of Queensland becomes the stage for one of nature’s most breathtaking shows: the migration of humpback whales. As these ocean giants glide past our home on the Sunshine Coast, many people choose to experience their magic through whale watching and whale swim experiences. This connection to the wild isn’t just unforgettable — it’s vital. Protecting humpback whales begins with awareness, and that spark often starts when you meet them in the water.
Why Humpback Whales Matter to Our Planet
Humpback whales do more than dazzle us — they support the planet’s health. By feeding in the depths and releasing nutrients near the surface, they help fertilise phytoplankton. These microscopic plants capture around 40% of global CO2 and produce over half the oxygen we breathe.
When whales die, their bodies sink to the ocean floor, storing vast amounts of carbon — the equivalent of thousands of trees. In this way, thriving whale populations are natural allies in the fight against climate change.
The Role of Whales in Marine Ecosystems
- Support phytoplankton growth through nutrient cycling
- Transport carbon to the seabed
- Increase biodiversity by fertilising ecosystems
- Strengthen marine food chains
A single whale can positively influence the ecosystem for decades. When we protect whales, we protect the ocean — and ourselves. This is why protecting humpback whales in Queensland is so important.
The Biggest Threats to Australia’s Whales
Despite their size, whales face huge threats:
1. Climate Change
Warming oceans disrupt whale food supplies, especially krill. Melting sea-ice affects whale habitats and reduces breeding success.
2. Fishing Nets and Entanglement
Hundreds of thousands of marine mammals are caught in fishing gear annually. On the east coast of Australia, whale entanglement in shark nets and fishing gear is a serious concern.
3. Ship Strikes and Noise Pollution
As marine traffic grows, so does the risk of collision and the impact of underwater noise — which disrupts communication and behaviour in whales.
4. Pollution and Oil Drilling
Whales and their habitats are harmed by oil leaks, plastic waste, heavy metals, and seismic blasting for offshore oil exploration.
Whale Conservation in Australia: A Global Example
Australia ended commercial whaling in 1978 and has since become a leader in whale protection. Today, around 45 whale species call Australian waters home. Whale protected areas are vital safe spaces for migration, breeding, and feeding — especially for humpbacks. Read more about their comeback from extinction here.
How You Can Help Protect Humpback Whales
Educate Yourself and Others
Learning about whale behavior, migration patterns, and threats helps build understanding and empathy. Share what you learn!
Support Ethical Whale Tours
Participate only in responsible whale swim and whale watching experiences. By choosing accredited operators, your tourism dollars contribute to research and marine protection.
Donate or Volunteer
Incredible organisations are working every day to study, protect and rescue whales in Australia. A few worth checking out:
ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia)
Australian Marine Conservation Society
Whale & Dolphin Conservation Australia
The Australian Whale Sanctuary
Nets Out Now
Even small donations help fuel research, rescue missions, and advocay. And if you’re local, volunteering and internships can offer a hands-on way to contribute.
Be an Ocean Advocate
- Avoid single-use plastics
- Choose reef-safe sunscreen
- Support sustainable seafood (or don’t consume it at all)
- Spread awareness
Building a Connection for Protection
People protect what they love — and nothing creates love and awe like seeing a humpback whale in the wild. Ethical encounters like on the Sunshine Coast can spark a lifelong commitment to conservation.
By swimming with whales in Australia the right way, we create bonds that fuel education, funding, and action — all of which are essential to protecting these gentle giants.
Let your love for the ocean fuel action. Protecting humpback whales in Queensland begins with you…
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