Winter has finally left us, and again it has been a hectic time for all at ORRCA. We have responded to a significant amount of whale and dolphin incidents and seal haulouts in the South Coast region, and with marine mammal numbers on the rise, we are expecting an even busier season in 2019.
Thus, ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia) will be training new volunteers in whale, dolphin, seal and dugong rescue techniques at the Narooma Swimming Centre on Sunday, December 2nd, 2018.
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.
Jacqueline O’Neill, ORRCA’s President, says, “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. 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.”
ORRCA is leading the way in developing more effective ways to rescue whales and other marine mammals and is the most experienced marine mammal rescue organisation in Australia.
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 please call 02 9415 3333 or visit www.orrca.org.au to book a place at a workshop. Only 20 places are available, so be sure to book today!
