News Wet weather can't dampen love for whales Opening day at the Island Whale Festival was wet and busy. by . Published July 07, 2026 Link copied! Copy failed! Courtney, Parker, Hudson and Daniel from Phillip Island enjoyed the "Catch a Ride" display which highlighted the creatures that "hitched a ride" with whales, including barnacles, lice, diatoms and more. Updated July 07, 2026 3:30 pm | 6 hours ago Link copied! Copy failed!