Humpback Whales filmed using the latest drone technology in 2015
Ground-breaking video footage of a mother humpback whale and her calf frolicking in waters off Cape Moreton will be used to educate visitors to Tangalooma on whale conservation. The video is thought to be the first of its kind in Australia, shot under special conditions using the latest drone technology.
Eco Ranger Susan Hassard said the imagery was important for research purposes although would also enable the Tangalooma Marine Education and Conservation Centre to present the humpback whale population recovery story and its importance, in spectacular living colour.
Mothers stop in Moreton Bay and Cape Moreton on their return journey to feeding grounds
The drone followed the Tangalooma whale watching vessel into Cape Moreton, shooting vision as cruise guests experienced the action first-hand.
"We are fortunate that Moreton Bay is one of the best places on the eastern sea board to witness the annual whale migration, (and) the best way to learn about and experience the whales is through our whale watching encounters" Mrs Hassard said.
However, as a seasonal attraction that only occurs from late autumn to early Spring, many visitors miss the chance to see the whales in person.
"The new footage really brings the whole experience to life. Our visitors will have year-round access to unique vision of whales at play with their newborns, like never before."
The footage was taken under provisions set down by the Queensland Government's Department of National Parks and Wildlife.
the best way to learn about and experience the whales is through our whale watching encounters
"Mothers stop in Moreton Bay and Cape Moreton on their return journey to feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean, to rest their calves. For this reason, we are blessed to see the whales at their most active, exhibiting natural behaviours like breeching and tail slapping", says Mrs Hassard, "It's an amazing privilege to watch the bonding between mother and baby, happening right before our eyes."
Operating for the past 26 years, the Tangalooma whale watching cruise was one of the first established in Queensland and the Tangalooma Jet is currently Australia's largest vessel dedicated to whale watching.
With Eco Rangers on board to provide in-depth commentary, the daily whale watching cruises also serve as a consistent means of collecting and recording scientific data for whale research.