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Humpback Whale Watching Tour!
The season for the Humpback Whales is between June and late November. Although this is not always the case, as sometimes the Whales can be seen into the New Year and as early as May. They move to the warmer waters to breed. They then migrate south after giving birth to their calves. The main breeding area is here and just North of here.
On August 11th 2002 we witnessed one of nature's wonders! We were walking around the North Gorge when we spotted a couple of Humpback Whales in really close.
They were doing, what we thought was a couple of tricks. Then one of the whales went under the water and the other was on top. After continual splashing with the tail and also the side fins we witnessed full body rolls. By this time people were gathering to join in the fun. We all started to clap as this was truly remarkable and entertaining!
Then the Humpback on the surface did to me what I would describe as trying to touch its nose and tail together. This would never happen, as they are just not that flexible. However it reminded me of the dog chasing its tail.
Then all of a sudden it was still and sank. We could just see it under the water and saw flashes of white as it was rolling around.
Then out of the blue water she pushed up her calf. It took its first breath. She piggybacked it around for quite some time. The other whale, also a female came up and checked out everything with her big eyes. Everything was OK!
What an experience. Just fantastic.
You will be able to see their migration as they pass the coastline of North Stradbroke Island, from one of the many beautiful scenic lookouts. When we drive along the Main beach, it is not uncommon to reduce speed and travel the same speed with the Whales as their massive bodies jettison out of the water like the Space Shuttle taking off, only to come crashing down with the biggest of splashes you have ever seen.
The whales are somewhat slower as they return to the colder southern waters, because they have their calves with them. So there are plenty of opportunities available to watch their progress. These animals really are a sight to behold!
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