Protecting the Environment 

Whales are protected by state and federal laws and heavy fines apply for breaching regulations.

In South Australia, distance requirements vary for different vessel types. Some vessels are required to keep at least 300 metres away from whales, and this distance is required for all vessels when calves or any animals in distress are present.

Reducing vessel speeds, and changing direction away from the whales ensures the safety and wellbeing of the whales, the vessel and its occupants.

Similar strategies apply to dolphins. In South Australia, some vessels must not approach within 150 metres of dolphins. Dolphins are often found in semi-protected waters, in particular, the Port River, Outer Harbor and Barker Inlet.

Sign posted speed limits of 4 and 7 knots exist in some of these areas.
These Regulations under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 are available at www.environment.sa.gov.au/dehaa/legislation.html

Reducing speed increases your safety, reduces wave wake to other boats and lessens the stress and risk of propeller injury to local dolphin populations.

Stranded (live) or injured marine mammal

If you observe a stranded whale or dolphin or an injured seal, whale or dolphin contact the:

• Department for Environment and Heritage, or
• Fishwatch,
• RSPCA,
• SA Museum,
• Australian Dolphin Research Foundation.

• location and number of animals,
• species involved (and description),
• your name and contact details,
• nature of the incident,
• identity or description of people involved (if any),
• registration number of boats (or vehicles) involved,
• when it was first discovered,
• the weather conditions now and expected,
• tide details,
• accessibility by boat/vehicle.

• Contact the Department for Environment and Heritage, or
• RSPCA,
• SA Police 131 444 or the nearest local police station.

Whale, dolphin or seal harassment

If you witness the harassment of marine mammals contact Fishwatch.
If unanswered contact one of the following:

• SA Police 131 444 or the nearest local Police Station,
• RSPCA.

Sightings of rare species

These include turtles, strange fish, sea snakes or other marine life not normally seen in South Australian waters. Contact the South Australian Museum.

Shark sightings

If you observe a shark(s) near swimmers or where it could cause harm to humans, please report the location, description, distance to shore and your contact details to:

• Fishwatch, or
• SA Police 131 444,
• The local council,
• The local Surf Lifesaving Club.