Exploring open-water experiences for Coffs’ Wildlife Sanctuary dolphins

COFFS Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (CCWS) Managing Director Tiga Cross is spearheading a broad investigation into the possibility of carefully planned and supervised short trips for the sanctuary’s dolphins into the open ocean on days when environmental, ocean and weather conditions are considered safe and suitable.

The move comes following investigations into a permanent sea pen for the dolphins that was not considered feasible due to a range of factors, including cost, safety, water quality, noise, environmental considerations and the significant infrastructure required.

“However, this has driven us to explore the idea of simply asking what more could potentially be offered to the dolphins in our care,” Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (CCWS) Managing Director Tiga Cross told News Of The Area.

“This is very different from the previous permanent sea pen proposal – the dolphins would continue to live and receive their normal care at the sanctuary while we investigate whether managed access to a natural environment could safely provide additional welfare and enrichment opportunities.

“We are at the very beginning of feasibility and consultation, and with the research, approvals, environmental work, veterinary considerations and training involved, it could take considerable time.”

CCWS is actively engaging with a range of stakeholders, including animal welfare organisations, Indigenous agencies and representatives, ecologists, government agencies, marine mammal welfare consultants, Coffs City Council and other groups to explore the possibility, involving many stages.

This includes investigating the potential use of Coffs Creek as a transitional environment, allowing the dolphins to gradually experience and train within a different natural water environment before progressing towards any potential open-ocean experience.

“If achievable, this could represent an Australian first, and CCWS is proud to be working collaboratively with a diverse range of parties to determine what may be possible,” she said.

“To be clear, this proposal does not involve the dolphins permanently living in the open ocean.

“Rather, we are exploring whether carefully managed open-water experiences could provide meaningful welfare, enrichment and training opportunities for the dolphins within a model that is more achievable in the timeframe and resources available.

“We also believe the knowledge gained through developing such a program could have benefits beyond the animals currently in our care.”

Ms Cross said it could potentially contribute to the future rescue, rehabilitation and management of dolphins and other marine mammals in Australia.

“We appreciate that people will have questions, concerns and differing opinions about what the future should look like for these dolphins.

“We welcome respectful conversations and recognise the passion that so many people have for their welfare.

“We believe this is an incredible opportunity worth exploring – particularly because it brings together people and organisations with a wide range of perspectives, including groups that have previously been vocal advocates for these animals and their future.

“Finding the best way forward does not mean everyone has to have started from the same position.

“What matters is bringing people together, listening to different perspectives and putting the welfare of the dolphins at the centre of the conversation.

“This is exploration, not a decision.

“We’re being open about the concept early so the community, specialists and stakeholders can be part of the conversation.

“If the evidence shows it isn’t safe, feasible or beneficial for the dolphins, it won’t proceed.

“We look forward to sharing more with our community as this work progresses.”

By Andrea FERRARI