ORRCA 2025 whale census

On Sunday 29 June 2025, ORRCA (the Organisation for the Rescue andResearch of Cetaceans in Australia) will host its 26th annual Whale Census Day, calling on coastal communities across the east coast to take part in one of the country’s longest-running citizen science initiatives - best of all, its free.

With the humpback whale migration season now underway, more than 40,000 whales are expected to pass along the New South Wales coastline this winter - a powerful symbol of marine conservation success. By participating in ORRCA’s Census Day, members of the public play an important role in documenting this migration and contributing valuable data that supports the protection and welfare of these extraordinary animals.

To participate, members of the public are encouraged to register their favourite whale-watching location or find their nearest official ORRCA census site by visiting www.orrca.org.au/census. These citizen scientists will then attend this location on the day and count and monitor humpback whales, logging their observations. All sightings throughout the day are recorded digitally using an online reporting system, and further details will be provided to registered participants ahead of the day. You can participate for as little or as long as you like, and be part of one of Australia's longest running citizen science projects.

Every year, coastal communities across NSW gather at headlands, beaches, and national parks to witness the awe-inspiring humpback whale migration - and to help count every whale sighting. It’s a unique blend of community, conservation, and adventure that makes it one of the best ways to spend a winter’s day by the ocean.

Visit www.orrca.org.au/census to find out more.