ORRCA Annual Survey 2026
We once again participated in @orrcaaustralia Whale Census Day. This was our third year counting humpback whales on their northern migration from a location near Cape Naturaliste, WA.
With recent reports from our own members and other organisations, we were prepared for a relatively low number of humpys this count.
Total numbers for today were 23 humpbacks (including one neonate) and 1 southern right whale. This is down from 69 humpys last year and 62 the year before. While the wind today played a part in making it difficult, this is still a significant result.Â
Whale tour operators also did their own count today, with @allseacharters counting 13 humpys on one tour, down from 25 last year, and @naturalistecharters counting 32 whales from 2 tours, down from 93 last year.
If you are planning a tour or travelling to your favourite coastline to see these majestic animals, don’t stress; the whales are still there to enjoy, possibly just a bit of a change in their migration pattern.
Special thanks to Nina for organising the day and to all that turned up to assist. We’ll be back again next year with hopefully some more locations on the south coast.
Advanced Drone Research
Researchers are using drones equipped with a custom-developed LiDAR system to perform accurate photogrammetry of whales and dolphins. This technology allows for the assessment of body conditions and the analysis of animal behaviour, including responses to predators and boat interference. Future developments aim to increase LiDAR resolution to allow for 3D modelling and the measurement of whale speed and acceleration.
100 Ton Gin Collaboration
GMR has partnered with Beyond Distilling to offer “100 Ton Gin,” named in honour of the massive Blue Whale. For every bottle sold, $25 is donated directly to GMR to support ongoing research. The gin is available through the Beyond Distilling website or at their store in Busselton.
Leschenault Dolphin Updates
Recent research in the Leschenault Estuary has tracked the movement of several dolphins, including individuals originally from the Mandurah area. One notable success is ‘Cocoa,’ the only surviving calf born in the estuary this year, who is now 1 year old and doing well. GMR continues to monitor these populations to identify potential stranding risks and study unique foraging behaviours.
Acoustic Monitoring Success
Since its inception, GMR has utilised underwater hydrophones (acoustic loggers) to record marine sounds over long periods. In 2024, a new logger was installed in the Eagle Bay Marine Sanctuary. These devices generate massive amounts of data, which are processed using specialised software to detect and analyse specific whale calls
November 2024
Our main project from 2023 was very successful and continued in 2024!
Scroll down to follow the blue whales from 2024. And please also follow our news on Social Media.
The mass stranding event of long-finned pilot whales on 25 April 2024 right in front of our research area is still sending shock waves to the research world worldwide. We are collecting all available data and asking if anyone would like to supply footage/photos that can help for a better understanding. Info to:
pilotwhales@marineresearch.org.au
Please also look to our social media for updates.
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Tagged Blue Whales.
This map shows the location of blue whales tagged by Bay Blues project team members earlier in November 2024.
Become a member. Download this file, fill it out and scan it. Email the scanned file to membership@marineresearch.org.au. There is no cost; you will be added to the newsletter mailing list, and you will be helping GMR in vital marine conservation efforts.
Help us support the whales with your contribution. We are seeking donations to help fund the Bay Blues project. The fieldwork for the project is now complete, and the researchers are busy compiling and analysing the data in preparation for the preparation of a series of scientific papers we expect to be published on the results. GMR needs your help to fund this project.
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