Natures spectacle is in full swing in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, as thousands of majestic giants hit the ‘humpback highway’ for their annual journey along Australia’s East coast.

After feeding in the icy Antarctic waters during the summer months, the first of over 30,000 humpback whales have started to make their way to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef to mate, calve and socialise.

Director of Field Management Strategy at the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority), Dr Mark Read, emphasises the significance of this annual migration and the global effort in safeguarding these gentle giants.

“It’s not a coincidence that these whales migrate to the Great Barrier Reef: it’s thanks to a global management effort in protecting these incredible gentle giants,” Dr Read said.  

“We recognise that the Great Barrier Reef is an important part of the migration path for our southern visitors (humpback whales), and the Reef Authority is dedicated to doing everything we can to put protection measures around these animals.

“As soon as these whales reach our waters, they are protected by a series of rules that ensures both their safety and those viewing them during any interactions.”

The Reef Authority is urging whale-watching enthusiasts and visitors to the Marine Park to keep a safe distance for both the whales and the whale-watchers.

“These giants of the deep never cease to amaze, even for whale researchers or tourism operators who are lucky enough to interact with them each year,” Dr Read said.

“But given the popularity of the Great Barrier Reef to a huge range of users, and the number of whales making the annual migration to the Great Barrier Reef, it will become a bustling humpback highway over the coming months, and important for everyone to adhere to approach distances.

“If you run into a 14 or 15-metre, 40 tonne whale, it’s likely your boat will come off second-best, and the whale could also be injured.

“The message is simple, be alert, watch out for whales, and know the rules to keep a safe distance.  It’s a simple message to ensure the safety of these magnificent creatures and those who admire them.”

For more information on rules and regulations for whale interactions, click here.