Eden residents know how to make a splash

Port Eden is one of the few places in the world where humpback whales feed while on their migratory route to Antarctica. The waters are rich with krill and means the whales often stop off for a feed according to Bupa Eden resident and mammal enthusiast Sheila Culle.

“We went out on the boat last year and again this year. We were lucky enough to have a humpback swim beside the boat then and this year they kept their distance but we still saw them,” Mrs Culle said.

“Even though I don’t know how to swim, I have a great respect for the ocean and I have always enjoyed being close to the sea,” she said.

Mrs Culle said it was not unusual for whales to come close to boats, as they are curious creatures and often interact with people in the same way.

Personal Care Assistant and organiser, Tammie Grimes said the trip is something that the residents look forward to all year round.

“This is the best time of the year to see them as they are south bound for Antarctica with their young,” Ms Grimes said.

"Last year, we had the whales close by the boat, at that time, they interacted with us and hopped beside us. It was truly amazing and this year we were lucky enough to see them again," she said.

The home’s General Manager, Kate Bain said the number of whales outside the Port has increased and so has the interest from residents in attending the cruise.

"We have new residents who weren’t on the cruise last year but had heard stories from residents who were."

"They were keen to have the beautiful creatures swim around them and I’m sure the whales were equally as keen to do some people spotting, which was really good for both us and them," Ms Bain said.

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