The Illawarra coastline is home to an incredible array of marine life, including whales, dolphins and seals. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the protection of these marine mammals by the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA).
Led by an all-volunteer group of passionate people including Illawarra locals Lyndell Roberts (Wollongong Pod leader) and Jody Langlois (Secretary), ORRCA’s efforts play a vital role in the conservation of our marine ecosystem.
ORRCA’s focus is on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine mammals in distress. Its work includes responding to strandings, entanglements, and injured animals, as well as collecting data to support vital research. The organisation also provides education and outreach to raise awareness about marine conservation issues and promote responsible behaviour around marine wildlife.
A key part of ORRCA’s educational initiatives is supporting the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to promote appropriate marine mammal approach distances. These guidelines are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of marine mammals.
To better understand public awareness of these guidelines, NPWS in collaboration with ORRCA has launched a survey aimed at capturing vessel users’ understanding of marine mammal approach distances. The insights gained will help shape future education strategies and ensure that everyone can enjoy marine wildlife responsibly.
By participating in the survey, you’ll contribute to vital research and have the chance to win an ORRCA prize pack valued at $200. The prize pack includes exclusive merchandise that showcases your commitment to marine conservation.
To take part, visit https://bit.ly/npwswhalesurvey and complete the short questionnaire. The survey is open to all boat and jet ski users, and your input will help protect marine mammals for generations to come.
ORRCA is always looking for enthusiastic new members to join its ranks. Becoming a member supports ORRCA’s rescue and research efforts and gives you the opportunity to participate in hands-on training and become part of a passionate community. Whether you’re keen to volunteer for rescues or to help spread awareness, there’s a role for everyone.
Joining is simple. Visit ORRCA’s website at www.orrca.org.au to learn more about membership options, training workshops, and upcoming events. With your help, ORRCA can continue to make a difference in protecting our marine mammals.
If you’re unable to volunteer your time for any reason, we warmly welcome donations as another way to support our work. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in helping ORRCA achieve its mission. ‘
Together, we can ensure that our stunning marine wildlife thrives in harmony with human activity. Join ORRCA today, take the NPWS survey, and make a difference for Australia’s precious marine mammals.
About the writer
Jody Langlois is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Ecology and Conservation Biology, with the goal of completing a Master’s degree to contribute to cetacean research and conservation efforts. A dedicated member of ORRCA for the past 18 months, Jody has served as Secretary for the last year and looks forward to continuing her involvement following the upcoming AGM. She is also an active contributor to ORRCA’s sub-committees on media, policy and compliance.
As a child, Jody dreamed of becoming a marine biologist but took a different path after being told she wasn’t “smart enough”. Now entering her 40s, she has embraced her passion, successfully completing her first year of university with distinctions and aiming to achieve her academic and professional goals.
Proud to call the Illawarra home, Jody spends much of her spare time snorkelling at local dive spots and exploring the region’s beautiful and diverse marine ecosystems.
