Thousands of humpback whales are once again making their annual journey along Queensland’s coastline, marking the start of another spectacular whale-watching season for Redlands Coast residents and visitors.
The migration, which runs from June through November, sees humpback whales travel approximately 5,000 kilometres from the icy waters of Antarctica to warmer northern breeding grounds. More than 40,000 whales are expected to make the journey this year.
Redland City Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island, known as Minjerribah, remains one of Australia’s premier land-based whale-watching destinations.
“As the season progresses, humpback whales, known as Yalingbila in the local Jandai dialect, will be visible in large numbers from the island’s headlands,” Cr Talty said.
Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell highlighted the popular Minjerribah Panorama Coastal Walk as an ideal vantage point for visitors. The walk features dedicated whale-watching platforms overlooking Frenchmans Beach and connects with the renowned Gorge Walk.
In addition to whales, visitors may also spot dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and large schools of fish along the coastline.
Several picnic areas are located throughout the coastal walk, making it a popular day-trip destination during the migration season.
To discover more, go to visitredlandscoast.com.au or drop into the Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre, 50 Middle Street, Cleveland.
The centre is open 9am to 4pm daily (except Good Friday and Easter Sunday) and can be contacted by phone on 1300 667 386 or email visitorcentre@redland.qld.gov.au