Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities
Operation CETUS to protect migrating whales
Media release
23 May 2011
Australia's annual whale watching season is a keenly anticipated event for whale watchers from across Australia and overseas. This season, to ensure migrating whales are protected from disturbance, a team of conservation and environment officers from Australian federal and state agencies are launching Operation CETUS.
Coordinated through the Australasian Environmental Law Enforcement and Regulators neTwork (AELERT) Operation CETUS will involve the close monitoring of the activities of boat operators, overflying small aircraft and people in the water interacting with whales and the enforcement of whale approach limits.
Australian conservation and environment agencies have developed national whale watching guidelines to better manage interactions with whales while providing people with an opportunity for a unique experience.
For more information regarding whale approach limits off your coastline contact your state conservation and environment department.
Whale watchers also need to be aware that some whales may experience numerous encounters with vessels and humans on their journey and as such it is important that each interacting vessel adheres to the guidelines, which are designed to minimize negative impacts.
Complying with approach limits will ensure the whale's safety and make an important contribution to a successful migration.
To report any suspected offences contact your state conservation and environment department. AELERT is a network of environmental enforcement agencies from all levels of government in Australia and New Zealand who work together on environmental law enforcement and regulation to protect our environment.
For information on AELERT visit www.aelert.com.au and for specific information relating to Operation CETUS contact the federal department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities on 02 6275 9880.
Media enquiries
These contacts are intended for journalists only. For other queries please see our contact us page.
Phone: +61 2 6275 9880
media@environment.gov.au
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