Northern Beaches residents are being encouraged to consider simple actions to support the local aquatic environment, as the annual Whale Census prepares to get underway.
Council is partnering with the marine conservation group ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia), to support the official count of humpback whales on their northern migration.
With thousands of humpbacks migrating along the East Coast each year, the Northern Beaches provides one of the best vantage points in Australia to witness this remarkable natural spectacle.
From 10am-2pm on Sunday 28 June, members of the public are welcome to join the official Whale Census site at the top of Long Reef headland.
Council will provide binoculars for use at the site to help volunteers keep watch, as an environmental officer shares information and answers questions about humpbacks and other marine species.
Getting involved with the Whale Census is just one way that Northern Beaches residents can help the local marine environment.
Ways to protect the aquatic environment include:
- Learn about the 5 aquatic reserves which are local protected areas.
- Reduce your use of single use plastics to prevent pollution entering waterways.
- Ensure outside drains are only for rain, to keep the stormwater system free of pollutants.
- Drop into the Coastal Environment Centre or take part in local activities.
- Report illegal or suspect fishing or collecting activities via the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536 or via this online report form.
For more information about how to support the Northern Beaches coastal environment, see Council’s website.
Further details about the Whale Census are on ORRCA’s website.