CALL OF THE SOUTH HEAD WHALE TALE

An exciting kid-friendly audio project has launched at South Head, telling the story of the annual humpback whale migration up the east coast from Antarctica.

Easily accessed by a QR code on mobile phones, the immersive tale – as well as the stunning coastal trail - can be enjoyed by families at their own pace. The nine audio chapters are only two to three minutes each, which make for easy listening for children.

“You can be listening and looking,” recommends renowned actor Vashti Hughes - who wrote the script and voices the lead whale.

And you don't have to be a child to enjoy the story – adults, retirees and the mobility impaired can listen to the Whale Tale by scanning the QR code on the South Head Whale Trail map. A free download will be available every Sunday morning in March –just walk by Macquarie Lighthouse at 11am or Clarke Reserve playground between 10.30-10.45am.

Like a theatre podcast a nd evoking the fun drama of radio plays, the audio story features an impressive group of local creatives: As well as Hughes, the Friends of South Head Artist Collective (FoSHAC) includes popular comedian/journalist Wil Anderson, actor Drew Fairley (voicing Macquarie Lighthouse complete with Scottish accent), a couple of child actors plus amazing sound designer Ross Johnston, and a dedicated support team.

Highlighting the charming s tory are delightful illustrations linked to the audio, some seeming to come to life by moving when viewed: “Award-winning artist Peter C Stone has created beautiful paintings to accompany this immersive audio walking experience,” says Hughes. Renowned for his books including Waltzes with Giants: The Twilight Journey of the North Atlantic Right Whale, Stone’s work has been described as ‘luminous spiritual journeys that celebrate nature’.

As well as a great spot to watch wha les from, FoSHAC decided that it would be a wonderful way to highlight Sydney Harbour National Park at South Head and how almost pristine it is. “We get so caught up in our urban lives [but] we’re so close to this extraordinary wild beauty – it’s really lovely to remind people that it’s only a bus, ferry or car ride to be out in nature,” observes Hughes. “We’re also drawing attention to South Head National Park as there’s always ideas circulating about developing it, and we’re certainly very much for keeping it as it is.”

Connecting Macquarie Li ghtho use to Hornby Lighthouse, this iconic section of walking trail - also a rare wildlife corridor - is under development pressure by a recently adopted NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service Masterplan which promotes a bold tourism agenda. For further info and story link, go to: southheadwhale.org

Paula Towers