It's whale watching season and with 35,000 of the creatures expected to pass the Port this winter, it won't be hard to spot a humpback or two off the coastline.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But for anyone wanting to learn more about the annual migration, the types of whales making their way along the east coast, then rug up and turn out to one of Jeannie Lawson's free talks this winter.
The local marine conservationist is back this year with Whale Tales, a series of free headland talks held in Boat Harbour and Fingal Bay.
"I have been professionally whale watching for 35 years. In the early days there were an estimated 1500 humpback whales passing our east coast. This year we are expecting around 35,000," Ms Lawson said.
"It has been an absolute privilege to witness the return of a species from the very brink of extinction.
"It is also so heartening to see the rise in marine conservation awareness over the years and how the whales have been instrumental in bringing the community together to help foster this.
"We still have a long way to go to saving our marine species, but at least now everyone knows there is an issue."
- Event Guide: Find out what's happening in Port Stephens
Boat Harbour and Fingal Bay are considered two of the Port's best land-based vantage points to spot whales on their annual migration.
Both locations are home to dedicated whale watching lookouts.
Ms Lawson will hold her Whale Tales talks at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm in Boat Harbour on June 26 and Fingal Bay on July 3.
The Boat Harbour talks will be held near The Cairn. To find this rock formation, follow signs pointing to The Cairn from the amenities block near Boat Harbour beach or Iluka Reserve.
The Fingal Bay talks will be held in Barry Park.
The talks are supported by Port Stephens Council.
The council's environmental education officer, Jessica Morris, said Whale Tales is a "perfect family-friendly activity".
"Our Whale Tales talks are an opportunity to learn about these majestic creatures as you watch them venture north to warmer waters," Ms Morris said.
"Everyone is welcome to come along to a talk - bring your own warm drink or snack and enjoy the incredible coastline as you soak in some amazing whale facts."
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.portstephensexaminer.com.au
- Follow us on Instagram @psexaminer
- Follow us on Twitter @PortExaminer