In 2015, the Majestic White Whale ‘Migaloo’ (‘White Fella’ in the Aboriginal language) passed our shores on 10th August 2015. Migaloo unexpectedly swam through the Gold Coast along the Humpback Highway – so breathtaking! The reason why Migaloo arrived so late in the season could be due to the changes in ocean currents and temperature. There was a lot of controversy whether it was Migaloo but all researches confirmed it was Migaloo, based on dorsal and fluke identification.
Spirit is the only boat in Australia to have sighted Migaloo three consecutive years in 2003, 2004 and 2005. In 2006, 2007 and 2008 Migaloo was elusive as he passed the Gold Coast, with no confirmed sightings. Migaloo was once again sighted in 2009 and 2012.
For more information about Migaloo, the White Whale visit www.migaloo.com.au and www.migaloo.org
This website is dedicated to Migaloo the White Whale and is about raising awareness on humpback whales as well as documented activities of unusual marine mammals including Migaloo, and the monitoring of interactions between the whale and curious humans.
Migaloo is Australia’s most well-known humpback whale. When he was first sighted he was the only known all white whale in the world. As he migrates up the east coast of Australia from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Tropical North Queensland his distinctive all white colouring allows people to report sightings.
Up until September 2011 Migaloo was thought to be the only all white Humpback Whale in the world. Then amazing footage emerged of a 100% all white baby humpback calf. This new white whale unofficially named MJ (Migaloo Junior) has amazed & delighted people from around the world. It really is Mother Nature at her brilliant best and hopefully this new all white whale will live as long as the average humpback whale (90 years) and assist in creating more awareness of our marine environment for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
Migaloo is protected under Australian law. He is part of the Australian East Coast Humpback Whale population. Because Migaloo is such a unique whale he has special Queensland & Commonwealth Government legislation that is enacted each year to protect him from harassment. For this reason all vessels including Jet-skis are prohibited from approaching Migaloo no closer than 500m and Aircraft no lower than 2000 feet. The Fine for breaching this law is $16,500.00.