Seal colony visits Brisbane Water

A colony of about 27 seals in Pittwater is increasingly visiting Brisbane Water and other parts of the Central Coast.

Local surfers at The Box have reported the pleasure of surfing with a number of seals on various occasions over the past few months, said Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch.

Ms Tesch has also had the pleasure to witnessing seals on two occasions while kayaking on Brisbane Water during lockdown.

"The first time was a real shock as I had no idea we had a local seal colony," she said.

"I watched the seal frolicking amongst seabirds and diving for tailor, re-emerging while devouring a fish and then diving again" said Ms Tesch.

"The second time I was very lucky to see one gliding on her side with one flipper reaching right out of the water as if she was just floating with the current.

"It was certainly a great start to the morning witnessing the majesty of these gorgeous creatures."

Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia vice-president Ms Jools Farell said that the migration of seals and whales usually coincide, with this time of year often the best to witness such animals out and about.

"The impact of the current lockdown has certainly been beneficial I must say in reducing noise pollution and allowing these animals to venture about with less interruptions."

Ms Farell said the seal with the flipper out of the water was most likely "thermo-regulating", floating on its side to control its body temperature.

"We get a lot of calls from people mistaking the seals as being injured or tangled in netting when they do this.

"Thankfully it is often not the case, and we love any opportunity to educate the public on our marine neighbours, and the importance of maintaining the required 40 metre distance from these animals both for our safety and theirs."

Ms Tesch commended the efforts of this group of volunteers as a fundamental part of ensuring our pristine waters remain full of life.

ORRCA operates a 24/7 rescue hotline on 9415 3333.

SOURCE:

Media release, 6 Oct 2021

Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford