Augusta’s ready for another record whale season
This June long weekend Whale Song Augusta returns for its third instalment as the southern right and humpback whales are welcomed back to the calm waters of Flinders Bay, Western Australia’s premier whale watching destination.
On the annual census day in 2011, Augusta recorded the highest number of migrating whales around Australia and you’re invited to experience all of the action this magical place has to offer.
The main event takes place on Sunday 3rd June under the marquee adjacent to the town’s famous bakery with stunning views of the Blackwood River. Entertainment will include a constant stream of live music, hula hooping, face painting and a bouncy castle.
Don’t miss Deb “Spoons” Perry – remarkable percussionist, spoons player and finalist on Australia’s Got Talent. A true entertainer, Deb performs a mind-blowing repertoire of popular songs using kitchen spoons. She has been recognised internationally for her unusual talent, with tens of thousands of hits on YouTube, a mention on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and even an upcoming American tour on the cards!
Visitors can source a hidden treasure or regional souvenir from one of the many market stalls providing quality craft items and gourmet local produce. In keeping with the aquatic theme, there will be a touch pool and a number of marine photographic and information displays. The funky, crazy and whacky cars from the ‘On the Road Again Bash’ will also be making an appearance.
Of course, additional whale watching charters will be in operation all weekend. In 2011, the success rate of seeing whales on a tour off Augusta was above 90 percent.
Other weekend activities will include extra tours at two of the state’s most extraordinary attractions: Jewel Cave and Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. Eco cruises up the Blackwood River, scenic dining experiences, family fun at Augusta Mini Golf and wine tasting at nearby wineries makes a winter getaway to Augusta ideal.
The event continues as a collaboration between the Augusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) and Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association (AMRTA).
“Augusta is one of the best places in Australia to see whales and it truly is a spectacular time of year to visit the Margaret River region” said AMRTA CEO Simon Ambrose.
“Whale Song Augusta embraces a community focus and is an opportunity to showcase the amazing local tourism assets, local talent and natural beauty – with a marine theme and community spirit at the core.
“The festival celebrates the start of the whale season in Augusta which runs from June to September and then moves to Dunsborough from September to December” said Mr Ambrose.
Flinders Bay is the first port of call for many whales that come to feed, breed and play in the warmer waters off the south west coast. This unique experience is special to Augusta as this is one of the few places in the world where you can observe southern right and humpback whales interacting – either from land or sea.
Whale Song Augusta is a community driven initiative and is proudly supported by the Department of Regional Development and Lands, Royalties for Regions, Eventscorp, Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association, Augusta Chamber of Commerce, Augusta Margaret River Shire Council, Augusta Branch of Bendigo Bank, GWN7, Legend Charters and Naturaliste Charters.
For further information visit www.margaretriver.com and contact the Augusta Visitor Centre on 9758 0166.
