Remembertogivethemawideberth

“Migrating whales are Queensland’s favourite annual visitors, they have arrived in our waters and boaties are being reminded to give them plenty of room” Environment Minister said “There had been unconfirmed sightings of Migaloo off New South Wales and he could be off the Queensland waters He is the white wonder that all Queensland whale watchers hope to catch sight of, but it’s important to remember ‘special interest’ rules now apply to him and all other white whales Most importantly, no-one can bring a boat or jetski closer than 500 metres or fly an aircraft closer than 2000 feet to a special interest whale like Migaloo without authorisation

We want both Migaloo and whale watchers to enjoy his visit to our waters. Separate rules exist for those hoping to spot a glimpse of the 20,000 less rare whales expected to cruise up and down the Queensland coast this year

Whale numbers had been increasing, making encounters with these magnificent animals more likely each year, whether you head out with one of Queensland’s whalewatching tour vessels or find a vantage point on land Restrictions around approach distances do apply to all whales

The standard distance is 100 metres for a single boat, 300 metres if there are three or more boats at the location and 300 metres for jet skis We know the whales traditionally like to stay and play in the protected waters of Hervey Bay, and we want them to enjoy themselves and ensure people can view them safely” Full details of the approach limits and the other changes to the legislation affecting marine mammals can be viewed on the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection website at www ehp qld gov au

Coalfest -Burrum Coal Discovery Festival

Howard...............................................................................Free Entry.

22 July 2023*

Free entry, food outlets, things to see, entertainment & safe rides for the kids. This event celebrates the heritage of this small region & acknowledging the contribution the past miners made to help make the towns of Torbanlea and Howard. Bellert Park, William St, Howard. E: coalfest@outlook.com

Childers Festival

Childers, Bundaberg Area..................................................Free Entry

27 - 30 July 2023*

Held annually on the last weekend in July, the Childers Festival closes the Bruce Highway and the historic streets are lined with food and market stalls set to a back-drop of live music and entertainment across numerous stages. Sunday's main Festival Day is free to attend and everyone is welcome. Churchill St, Childers, QLD 4660.

Ph: 1300 883 699 W: www.childersfestival.com.au

Taste Bundaberg Festival

Bundaberg Area, various locations................................Cost Various 4 - 13 August 2023*

Appreciate the hard work of the farmer, distiller, brewer, fisherman and grazier who provide a delicious showcase of authentic food and drink experiences crafted from the rich farmlands and pristine coastline of the Bundaberg Region. 190 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg, QLD 4670.

Ph: 1300 883 699 W: www.tastebundabergfestival.com.au

Kingaroy BaconFest

Kingaroy, South Burnett Area.............................................Free Entry.

18 - 20 August 2023*

A three day sizzling food festival celebrating the versatility of bacon. Bacon lovers will experience various competitions, live music, fashion parades, cooking demonstrations, markets and most importantly delicious BACONY foods!

Glendon Street, Kingaroy, QLD 4610.

Ph: 0435 775 494 W: www.kingaroybaconfest.com.au

Oceanfest Bundaberg

Burnett Heads, Bundaberg Area........................................Free Entry.

26 August 2023 *

Held in the picturesque Port Marina precinct, Oceanfest

Bundaberg focuses on quality, local seafood, local wines, local beers, entertainment and a range of ocean orientated attractions, displays, demonstrations and workshops. Amusement rides and events for kids, fantastic live entertainment.

Mitchell Creek Rock 'N' Blues Festival

Upper Kandanga, Mary Valley.....................................Ticketed Event. 15 - 17 September 2023*

An Australian Premier Music Festival hosted on a private 100 acre property up in Noosa Hinterland's beautiful Mary Valley Escape to the bushland for an adventure-filled weekend of rock blues and roots music. Enjoy FREE camping, and 2 x alternating stages offering you non-stop music, so you never have to miss a band or artist.

3 Mitchell Creek Road, Kandanga, QLD 4570. E: info@mitchellcreekrocknbluesfest.com.au