The Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) predicts winter will be a busy time for its volunteers, which is why it is recruiting more now.
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ORRCA will be training volunteers in whale, dolphin, seal and dugong rescue techniques in Port Stephens on Saturday, March 24.
“ORRCA works tirelessly each year with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, as well as other government agencies, at dozens of marine mammal incidents,” ORRCA president Jacqueline O’Neill said.
“With the support and fantastic efforts of our trained volunteers, we have a high success rate at these rescues and incidents.
“We also train many members of these government agencies in marine mammal rescue, and are proud that this often results in efficient and well coordinated responses.”
Australia is a country familiar with whale strandings, and currently has a leading role in the development of marine mammal rescue techniques.
Every year, ORRCA works with rescue groups worldwide to ensure that our methods include the latest and most efficient techniques.
Ms O’Neill said the non-profit, licenced rescue group responded to a significant amount of whale and dolphin incidents, as well as seal haulouts, in the 2017 season and is predicting another big year in 2018.
“As such, we still need more trained rescuers in Port Stephens for our upcoming rescue season,” she said.
ORRCA training is a one-day course with theory and lectures in the morning followed by practical exercises in the afternoon.
Training workshops ensure that new members are well prepared, covering biology, first aid and care as well as practical training to introduce members to the unique pressures of a whale stranding incident.
If you are interested in being involved call (02) 9415 3333 or visit orrca.org.au.