Page 20 - SODURBA Vistors Guide 2025

Bluff Whale Heritage Area
whale.
Every June, we celebrate this vibrant conservation spirit with the Annual ‘Welcoming of the WhalesTM Festival.’ It’s an event for the entire family, offering both fun and education. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the conservation of cetaceans, marine life and our precious beaches. Our artistic projects, such as “Echo”
, “Destiny” and “Infinity” where local artists, including school students and local companies, craft whale sculptures from plastic bottle tops, embody the creative spirit that drives our commitment to the oceans.
The Maritime Heritage Route is a beacon for tourists and locals alike, providing a journey that intertwines science, conservation, tourism and the vibrant narratives of our local communities, all framed by spectacular viewpoints to witness the iconic humpback whales.
The Bluff has earned the prestigious title of an international Whale Heritage Site, joining an elite group of just seven such sites worldwide. This accreditation shines a spotlight on our region, garnering attention at local, national and global levels. More than just an honour, it’s a commitment to fostering sustainable tourism and championing marine conservation.
At the heart of this achievement lies the historic Bluff Whaling Station, situated on the Bluff Headlands, once
the world’s largest of its kind. Sodurba’s vision is to transform this iconic site into a Heritage Landmark
and the ultimate Tourism Attraction. Here, we aim to showcase not only our Whale Heritage but also
our rich Cultural and Military history. This attraction will be a cornerstone of Sodurba’s Maritime Heritage
Route, seamlessly weaving together our past, present, and future. Visitors will gain insights into science,
conservation, tourism, and the profound connection between our local communities and the iconic humpback
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