Public opinion decides man in tinnie behind whale rescue ‘a hero’ despite breaking rules
A Gold Coast man who rescued a baby whale trapped in shark nets has been hailed a hero, with memes celebrating his heroics and thousands of dollars raised to pay possible fines.
Gold Coast
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HE’S known only as Django but the Gold Coast man filmed taking his tinnie out to rescue a baby whale trapped in shark nets will go down in history as a hero – fine or no fine.
The unlikely champion wasted no time jumping into the water, after the distressed whale was spotted off Burleigh Heads on Tuesday morning.
His actions prompted an outpouring of support online, with memes created celebrating his heroics and a GoFundMe account raising $8000 after he was threatened with fines.
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But he, and others, agree it was a risky decision with Django telling the Today Show , “obviously, it was dangerous. I wouldn’t recommend everyone go and do it, it’s highly dangerous.”
Environmentalist and Save Our Spit spokesperson Luke Sorensen agreed, saying it was important to uphold laws prohibiting people from approaching distressed whales, for the safety of both people and the animal.
But he said regardless of whether authorities decided to issue him a fine, Django had already been judged by the public.
“People are backing him all the way,” Mr Sorensen said.
“The public opinion is that he is a hero – fine or no fine.
“What he did is understandable. People feel compelled to do something, it’s only natural when you see an animal in distress.
“But there are laws in place to prevent people getting involved to protect wildlife, to protect people.
“I tend to agree with public opinion. He did a brave thing, he did the right thing and hopefully that whale lives on.”
An investigation has now been launched which could cost the diver upwards of $27,000.
Queensland Fisheries has confirmed it is investigating but says no fine has yet been issued.
Fisheries Minister Mark Furner said the rescue was incredibly risky.
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“It is dangerous equipment. We have unfortunately seen the loss of life when people have themselves become entangled in this equipment,” he said.
“It will be up to the department to consider whether this gentleman will be prosecuted.”
A GoFundMe page started to cover any costs resulting from fines, titled Tinny Man Saves Whale, had almost reached $8000 by 11am on Wednesday morning.
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