Boat seen driving metres away from whale pod at Sunshine Beach
Video has emerged of a boat chasing a whale pod just metres away from them in a dangerous move which could have been “potentially fatal” for human or whale.
Sunshine Coast
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Confusion has erupted online after a boat was seen chasing and driving close to whales near a Noosa beach.
Two videos and an image depicting several whales spouting water with a boat quickly approaching from behind were posted to Facebook on August 22.
The second video shows the boat slightly ahead of the pod, appearing to be just metres away as they breached.
The post was captioned stating the boat was chasing a group of whales near Sunshine Beach that morning, pulling up into the animals’ path.
“If someone knows who this is, could you please give them an ‘I’m disappointed in you’ speech in your best dad voice? Thanks,” the post read.
A Department of Environment, Science and Innovation spokesman said there are strict rules surrounding no-approach zones to keep whales and people safe.
The zone for a whale is 100m from the side of the animal and 300m in front and behind.
The spokesman said skippers and passengers are put at risk of being capsized, injured or worse if approaching a whale.
“Whales often travel in pods and if skippers are approaching one whale, another can surface at any moment without warning,” he said.
“Whales are also at risk of receiving serious or potentially fatal injuries from boats and their propellers while simply existing in their natural habitat.”
The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation is aware of the footage.
Commercial or recreational vehicles who breach the limit can receive an $806 on-the-spot fine.
Anyone with information regarding approach limit breaches are encouraged to contact the department on 1300 130 372.
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