16th June 2019 Port Stephens Community Dolphin Census

This year, the Port Stephens Community Dolphin Census will be held on Sunday 16th June, between 11am-12pm. The census is conducted by the Marine Parks Association with the help of volunteer counters. 2019 marks the 19th year of the census which is the longest running community dolphin count in Australia.

Last year’s event, held on 29th July, saw 96 participants man 66 sites around Port Stephens for the hour-long census, with 103 dolphins sighted. During the census, volunteers will be distributed along the shores and on the waters of Port Stephens. At each census site, observers will record information about the dolphins encountered during the census period. Bring your camera! We encourage participants to take photos of any dolphins they encounter.

A big thank you to everyone who has already registered for this year's census. The census day is creeping closer and we're looking forward to seeing everyone out on the water and along the shoreline. There are still plenty of areas around the Port in need of spotters, click here to register! There's a number of nature-themed events taking place in the area this month that we hope you will join us in supporting!

Upcoming events: 2nd June. Paddle For The Planet. Hosted by Shoal Bay SUP. 9am. Shoal Bay SUP, opposite 3 Shoal Bay Road, Shoal Bay. Paddle for the Planet is a Global Paddling Relay. Paddle for the Planet unites paddlers, creates awareness and is a movement for conservation. The goal is to have simultaneous paddling events happening sequentially, at a specific time, in every time zone and in each country around the world. Visit Facebook Events Page or Shoal Bay SUP for more information. 8th June. Fingal Forage. Hosted by Sea Shelter. 9am. Register next to the surf club and Fingal Park, Marine Drive Fingal Bay Enjoy beautiful Fingal Bay Beach in Port Stephens on the long weekend for this free community World Oceans Day event! The Fingal Forage is an educational adventure that sees families, friends or groups race against the clock completing a wide range of ocean related activities. This race is not so much an athletic event, more of fun day out challenging the groups mind as they encounter the various activities along the way. Aimed at adults and children (under adult supervision) alike come join us while we celebrate and educate this important World Oceans Day. Visit Facebook Events Page or Sea Shelter for more information. 12th June. Sea Stories- The Nature of Whales, presented by Jeannie Lawson. 7pm. Waratah Room, Tomaree Library. 7 Community Close, Salamander Bay. Sea Stories- The Nature of WhalesThe Humpback whales are beginning to pass our coast on their annual migration, so in June, it's only fitting that Sea Stories focuses on these giants of the deep.The Nature of Whales will be presented by Jeannie Lawson, who has worked with whales for 30 years and will share some insights into their lives. Join us on Wednesday, 10th June, 7pm at Tomaree Library for 'The Nature of Whales'.Free entry for Marine Parks Association members. Non-members are welcome to attend- a gold coin donation is appreciated. Visit www.marineparksassociation.org.au for more information.