As winter rolls around we welcome back the arrival of whales to the waters off Phillip Island and the Bass Coast on their annual migration!
The Island Whale Festival 2023 is in its seventh year and celebrates the arrival of these majestic creatures with a range of special events across the festival weekend.
This year the award-winning Island Whale Festival will be back in Cowes on Friday June 30, Saturday July 1 and Sunday July 2 with the Festival hub at St Philip’s church grounds.
There will be talks and presentations held in the hall, the marquee will be filled with activities and information stalls, and this year we will have the Wildlife Coast Cruises entertainment stage with music and entertainment.
Additional activities include:
- Woolamai Beach Life Saving Club at Cape Woolamai will be the home of the Dolphin Research Institute and Two Bays Whale Project hosting Spot A Whale, talks and activities
- Masonic Hall, Cowes will feature VR experiences where you can ‘snorkel’ on the Great Southern Ocean Reef and a fun Plastics Recycling workshop
- The Nobbies Centre will host a Pop-Up Art show featuring local artists – enjoy some beautiful art while you look for whales
- There’s also a Silent Disco on Saturday at the main hall Cowes
The Ocean Film Festival showings will be at the Newhaven College Black Box theatre on Saturday July 1 at 1pm and 7pm.
You can check out the full program on islandwhales.com.au
One of the best spots on the island to look for whales is the Woolamai Beach Life Saving Club with its high vantage points. This year, the club is the home of Festival founder and partner, the Dolphin Research Institute. You will hear from the experts on how to spot a whale, learn all about the whales of Victoria and join in some fun activities.
The festival allows the local community and visitors alike to have the opportunity to engage with a range of activities that will not only entertain but also allow you to appreciate the wildlife and natural habitats of Phillip Island and the Bass Coast region.
Those visiting Phillip Island are encouraged to take the time to explore the Phillip Island and Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail, featuring some of the finest land-based whale lookouts in the region.
Grab your warm clothing and a pair of binoculars, head out to one of the fantastic vantage points from Phillip Island, Bass Coast to Inverloch, and marvel at the area's stunning landscapes along the way.
Those wanting to get closer to the marine giants can join one of the Wildlife Coast Cruises whale and dolphin boat tours that circumnavigate the island in search of whales. Don't forget to get in early and book your Winter Whale Cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises to head out and see the whales up close – a truly unforgettable experience!
The Island Whale Festival is proudly presented by festival partners Destination Phillip Island, Wildlife Coast Cruises, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Dolphin Research Institute, Two Bays Whale Project and supported by the state government of Victoria and Bass Coast Shire Council.
Stay up to date with the latest announcements, including the program on the Island Whale Festival website or follow the festival on Facebook or Instagram.
With lots of excited visitors please remember to look after the coastal environment by watching out for wildlife on the roads and by keeping to the designated tracks.
Program information is available at islandwhales.com.au and bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.
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