Migaloo Sighting
What could be a more perfect ending to a day out on the Great Barrier Reef than spotting humpback whales as well? Guests have been treated to surprise sightings over the past few weeks, but none have been as lucky as those who caught a glimpse of the rare albino whale, Migaloo, on Friday the 14th.
Last spotted in 2007 in the waters near Port Douglas in far North Queensland, Migaloo put on a show all by himself this year. With cameras at the ready and all eyes scanning the water, guests watched in awe as his massive white body showed itself time and again.
Migaloo, which means “White Fella” in the Aboriginal Australian language, is the only documented all-white humpback whale in the world. Reports are coming in regularly of Migaloo sightings and the researchers of the Pacific Whale Foundation have been working hard to track his movements. Having travelled past Byron Bay at the beginning of July, this unique adult whale has made his way back to our waters, possibly in search of a mate.
Sightings such as this provide a valuable insight into the migratory patterns as well as a special treat for those enjoying a day out on the Great Barrier Reef. There’s a special sort of excitement that travels through a group when you discover that you’ve been sharing the water with an animal so large and majestic!
Greg Kaufman, President and Founder of the Pacific Whale Foundation, spoke at the Marina View restaurant on August 6th about the humpback whales that migrate along the east coast of Australia. Praised as being the world’s leading authority on the subject, Mr. Kaufman captured the audience’s attention for more than an hour with his lecture and photos.
For more information about the foundation or a chance to adopt a whale, visit www.pacificwhale.org
