Sunshine Coast man captures surprise whale encounter at Mooloolaba

Mooloolaba boaties got more than they bargained for when they were surprised by a whale in an unlikely spot. See the video.

Mooloolaba boaties got more than they bargained for when they were surprised by a whale in an unlikely spot during a routine fishing trip.

Boat-owner and cinematographer, Tim Whybrow, who has spent more than 800 hours on the water, described the encounter as “awe-inspiring” and “bizarre”.

Mr Whybrow and his mates encountered the whale between the rock walls at Mooloolaba last week.

“We tried to avoid the whale where possible and we’re grateful it wasn’t hurt and found its way back out to sea where possible. It swam towards us, the engine was engaged to neutral when swimming under the vessel,” Mr Whybrow said.

Mooloolaba boaties got more than they bargained for when they were surprised by a whale in an unlikely spot.

Mr Whybrow said while the video initially copped some backlash from those watching on social media, he followed all the correct regulations and kept his distance as much as possible.

“This is a fantastic educational lesson for everyone to try to avoid whales and proximity where possible, although this encounter was unavoidable given the circumstances and position of my vessel in the barway,” Mr Whybrow said.

“It’s a good reminder for people not to chase after whales and to ensure your engine is turned off within a 300m proximity or your vessel is out of gear in neutral, as per law, you can then motor away under 6 knots from the location of the whale.”

Originally published as Sunshine Coast man captures surprise whale encounter at Mooloolaba