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The Oceania Project's
Whale Research Expeditions
in Hervey Bay


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Two decades of dedication to independent research


The Oceania Project, established in 1988, is a Not-for-profit research and information organisation dedicated to the Conservation and Protection of Whales, Dolphins and the Oceans.

The long-term study of Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay is the major work of The Oceania Project.

This work was, and continues to be made possible, by individuals who participate in
The Oceania Project's Internship Program.
To date more than 1800 Interns (paying eco-volunteers) have joined the Annual Whale Research Expeditions in Hervey Bay

Invovlement is open to all Members of the Public and no prior experience is needed.

Work on The Oceania Project's website has been of equal importance. It was established in 1996 and provides a global information resource dedicated to the Conservation and Care of Whales and Dolphins. The education and research programs are also supported by our shop iWhales.org.

Trish and Wally abaord 'Karma' -1997

Trish and Wally, Founders of The Oceania Project aboard Karma in 1997. Karma was the Expedition research vessel between 1995 and 1997.

If you are interested in participating in this years Expedition as a paying eco-volunteer check online for information, costs and availability

Trish on the bow of 'Moon Dancer' Photo-identification of individual humpback whales is the main research methodology used in Hervey Bay and since 2000 sloughed-skin samples have been collected from humpbacks for DNA and genetic analysis.

Between 1992 and 2017 all the photo-identification field-work and analysis has been undertaken by Trish Franklin. The digital photo-id archive now consists of over 60,000 data images. The Hervey Bay Fluke Catalogue numbers 3339 individual Humpback whales and Trish has accumulated long-term life histories on over 673 individual humpback whales.

Trish's research focus is the social and ecological importance of Hervey Bay for eastern Australian humpback whales. Wally's research focus is the abundance, site-fidelity,residency and migratory interchange of humpback whales using Hervey Bay

Trish and Wally hold PhD's from southern Cross University and are Members of the Southern Cross University Whale Research Group (SCUWRCG)


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