This whale spotting event happens once a year – and it’s this weekend

Elizabeth WhiteheadBy Elizabeth Whitehead
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The annual whale census is taking place, and it’s down to whale enthusiasts to help track the count. Are you in?

It’s winter, and that means it’s currently peak hour on the ‘Humpback Highway’. The whale census is an annual event that counts whale populations during migration to track species’ health and movements. Not only does this involve the help of members of the community, but it also actively relies on them to keep the count. So, if you live on the East Coast and want to get involved? It’s as easy as heading to your local headland this Sunday, 26th June (thermos in hand).

Jervis whales
With the help of citizen scientists, the whale census tracks whale populations and health. (Image: Jordan Robins)

How to get involved with the whale census

The census is run by a non-profit Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) . While you can register and track the whales from anywhere, you can also join ORRCA members at these locations on Sunday, 26 June:

  • Point Danger, Coolangatta
  • Lennox Head Headland
  • Woolgoolga Headland, Coffs Harbour
  • Tacking Point Lighthouse, Port Macquarie
  • Boat Harbour, Port Stephens
  • Cape Solander, Kurnell with NPWS
  • Hill 60, Port Kembla (instead of Bass Point)
  • Warden Head, Ulladulla with NPWS
  • Bar Rock Lookout, Narooma
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse with NPWS
  • Long Reef Headland with Northern Beaches Council
  • Cape Banks, La Parouse
  • King Edward Park, Newcastle

The organisation is calling on one and all from sunrise to sunset, no matter if you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-timer.

whale watching in Cairns
Winter marks the annual ‘Humpback Highway’ as they migrate north. (Image: Reef Unlimited)

Can’t make the official count? We’ve rounded up the best places for whale watching around Australia. And if you haven’t seen any whales yet, it’s not too late – make like the humpbacks and head north to Cairns, where these majestic beings are spotted between July and August. Reef Unlimited has launched a new tour dedicated to whale watching experiences on the Great Barrier Reef, too. Departing from Cairns aboard the brand new Aquarius II vessel from July 12 to August 22, guests have a chance to see humpback whales up close while being guided by expert marine biologists and there’s also a stop at the world-renowned Fitzroy Island and Nudey Beach (which was recently named among the world’s top 50 beaches for 2025). Could there be a better location to spot whales in Australia than in one of the seven wonders of the natural world? We think not.

Elizabeth Whitehead
Elizabeth Whitehead is a writer obsessed with all things culture; doesn't matter if it's pop culture or cultures of the world. She graduated with a degree in History from the University of Sydney (after dropping out from Maths). Her bylines span AFAR, Lonely Planet, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and Refinery 29. Her work for Australian Traveller was shortlisted for single article of the year at the Mumbrella Publishing Awards 2024. She is very lucky in thrifting, very unlucky in UNO.
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6 reasons why Townsville is the new events capital of Queensland

    Australian TravellerBy Australian Traveller
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    Beyond the sand, sea and food scene, Townsville is shaping up to be the new events capital of the Sunshine State.

    Townsville is quickly making a name for itself as an events capital of Queensland. From worldwide sporting events to celebrations of the arts, there’s never been a better time to align your next tropical getaway with the unbeatable vibes of an event in Townsville.

    The yearly calendar is full, meaning there’s an event for everyone. But these are shaping up to be some of the biggest events in 2025.

    1. North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA)

    24 Sep – 12 Oct 2025

    While sun, sea and sand might be the first images conjured up at a mention of Townsville, the tropical city is fast making a name for itself as a cultural hub. Experience it at its best during the North Australian Festival of Arts.

    Over several weeks, the famous Strand in Townsville will be bursting with colour, sound and energy as it celebrates the arts, culture and community. Catch theatre, cabaret, dance, circus acts and so much more. Stop to listen to world-class live music and even get involved with interactive workshops.

    In previous years, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performed a free outdoor concert and Brisbane Author, Trent Dalton, was there to share his latest book.

    performers at North Australian Festival of Arts (NAFA)
    Catch live music and more.

    2. Supercars NTI Townsville 500

    11-13 July, 2025

    Sports fans will be pleased to know that Townsville boasts more than just the NRL Cowboy’s. Those facing the comedown of this year’s Formula 1 can bounce back with the 2025 NTI Townsville 500. Each year, the event draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the country as Supercar racing takes over the streets of Townsville.

    Off the race track, the weekend also promises plenty of car tricks and displays – think drifting, car builds and the MotorEx automotive expo  – plus live music, ADF displays, freestyle motocross and more.

    crowd watching Supercars NTI Townsville 500, townsville events
    See supercars take over Townsville.

    3. Australian Festival of Chamber Music

    25 July – 2 Aug 2025

    Clear your ears of the sounds of revving engines with one of the city’s longest-running events,  The Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM). Here, some of the world’s most celebrated musicians head to Townsville to perform an impressive 30 concerts over nine days.

    The best part? AFCM features exclusive shows that can only be experienced at the festival, like AFCM Concert Conversations, where visiting festival musicians share their personal and professional lives.

    lead image for Australian Festival of Chamber Music, townsville events
    Experience exclusive events at the AFCM. (Image: Andrew Rankin)

    4. SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week

    28 Aug – 2 Sep 2025

    Just 20 minutes from the city, koala-filled Magnetic Island is a must-do at any time of year. Time the trip for the annual SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week to not only enjoy paradise, but also five days of tropical racing fun with a twist.

    Every August to September, enjoy live bands, parties, beach festivals, markets, long lunches and even mud crab races. All while taking in tropical island views.

    SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week
    Enhance Magnetic Island trips with five days of tropical racing. (Image: TEQ)

    5. Wedgwood: Artists and Industry exhibition

    23 Apr – 24 Aug 2025

    Hailing from England, Wedgwood has been a household name almost since the brand started in 1759 (by Charles Darwin’s grandfather). With over 260 years under the company’s belt since then, its ceramics and designs are popular all over the world.

    And now, Wedgwood: Artists and Industry will showcase highlights of the brand’s history – straight from the UK’s Victoria and Albert Museum – at Townsville’s Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.

    Wedgwood teacup
    See the best of Wedgwood. (Image: Getty/ Photonewman)

    6. Wallabies v Argentina

    6 September

    Rugby fans should time their Townsville getaway for September to add watching the Wallabies clash against Argentina from Queensland Country Bank Stadium to their itineraries.

    The home ground of the NRL North Queensland Cowboys, this vibrant and stylish $185 million sporting venue in South Townsville is the perfect setting to enjoy sports.

    aerial of Queensland Country Bank Stadium in townsville
    See the rugby at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. (Image: TEQ)

    Start planning your event-filled getaway at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au .