24/7 Software
The world's greatest properties run on 24/7 Software Whether at commercial properties, corporate facilities, sports arenas, or public entertainment venues, we're proud to lead the way in…
read moreA NSW whale watching tour operator has criticised Queensland-based tourism experiences that allow people to swim with whales.
In June, Sunshine Coast dive operator Sunreef Mooloolaba launched an experience that gives divers the opportunity to see Humpback Whales.
Based on the success of this venture, other tour operators are believed to planning to launch similar experiences.
Sunreef Mooloolaba allows swimmers to snorkel in the path of Humpback whale, at distances in excess of 100 metres from the mammals – although other operators have posted images on their websites of guests touching the giant marine creatures.
However, Ross O'Brien ('Captain Rosscoe') who runs a whale watching tour company in Kiama believes the practice is too dangerous.
O'Brien told the ABC "they're a wild creature, they're not a creature that was raised by hand at Sea World.
"Just recently, I can't remember how long ago, but we had a doctor sitting on a surfboard at Bondi and he got slapped up the back of the head by a whale tail."
"I don't think people realise how big these things are."
O'Brien said the plan shouldn't be condoned, adding "you've got a 40 tonne beast there. They're the size of a double-decker bus. Go and tackle a double-decker bus.
"There'd be a lot of sharks swimming around down there too."
"You're talking about the ocean, not a swimming pool."
Captain Rosscoe runs whale watching tours aboard the MV Signa.
For details go to www.mvsigna.com.au
27th June 2014 - NEW MARINE EXPERIENCE OFFERS CHANCE TO SWIM WITH HUMPBACK WHALES
7th September 2013 - SIGHTSEEING BOATS ENDANGER WHALES
12th November 2011 - VISITOR STATISTICS SHOW WHALE SHARK TOURISM ON THE RISE
Support our industry news service
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?
As an independent publisher, we need reader support for our industry news gathering so ask that - if you don't already do so - you back us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine and/or our online news.
The Complete Guide to Leisure Industry Products & Services.
The world's greatest properties run on 24/7 Software Whether at commercial properties, corporate facilities, sports arenas, or public entertainment venues, we're proud to lead the way in…
read moreAPT (Advanced Polymer Technology) is the leading global manufacturer of polyurethane-based materials, acrylic coatings and synthetic turf products for sporting and recreational applications. From…
read moreFelton Industries is Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of quality outdoor furniture and has been supplying premium seating solutions for all sporting, commercial, community…
read moreHIB Insurance Brokers - Experts in Leisure and Amusement Insurance With over 20 years specialising in the Amusement and Leisure industries, we have the experience to understand your operations and…
read moreTurnstile Entry Systems and Access Control Centaman Entrance Controls’ Award Winning Range of Access Control Systems includes tripod & triarm turnstiles, speedgates, full height…
read moreAUSTRALIAN MADE. FIT FOR PURPOSE. Based on the Gold Coast, AlphaFit is a leading manufacturer and supplier of Australian gym equipment specifically for the commercial, strength and conditioning,…
read moreSeatGeek is a search engine and mobile-focused ticket marketplace that allows fans to buy and sell tickets for live events. As of August 2018, SeatGeek has exited the Australian, New…
read moreGeoff Ninnes Fong & Partners (GNFP) is a structural, aquatic and civil engineering consultancy with broad experience in the design of new municipal and institutional swimming pools, hydrotherapy…
read moreGet your business noticed in our targeted directory. Viewed by 10,000 industry professionals per week!