Dolphin census day invites community participation

LOCAL residents are once again invited to take part in the Port Stephens Dolphin Census, Australia’s longest-running community dolphin count.

This year’s event will be held by ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia) on Sunday, 17 August from 11am to 12pm, with participants recording sightings of the region’s resident Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins.

Now in its 21st year, the annual Dolphin Census is a much-loved local event that combines citizen science with community connection.

It builds on more than two decades of data collection started by the Marine Parks Association and has been under ORRCA’s stewardship since 2024.

“After more than 20 years of this census, the Port Stephens community has a remarkable opportunity to continue to contribute to real, long-term conservation science,” said Ashley Ryan, ORRCA President.

“It’s an hour that can make a lasting difference for the local dolphin population.”

The Dolphin Census is free and open to all, with clear instructions and training materials provided. Participants can choose from around 100 land-based or on-water vantage points around Port Stephens to spend one hour observing and recording:

● The number of dolphins sighted

● Behaviours such as feeding, socialising, or resting

● Dorsal fin photographs where possible, to assist with dolphin identification

All data is submitted via ORRCA’s dedicated reporting app, then reviewed by the organisation’s Research Team.

Results will be shared with participants once the analysis is complete.

In 2019, the census recorded 120 individual dolphins during the one-hour survey.

In 2024, sightings dropped to 42 individuals.

While this does not necessarily reflect a direct population decline, the trend highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring to better understand changes in dolphin numbers and distribution.

In response, ORRCA has launched a new long-term monitoring program alongside the annual census, providing year-round data to help identify patterns and potential conservation needs for the Port Stephens dolphin population.

Local ORRCA member and event organiser Sherelyn Overson said, “After disruptions in previous years, it’s great to see the community come together again for this important project.

“We’re all part of the effort to ensure Port Stephens remains a place where dolphins can thrive.”

Volunteers are encouraged to bring binoculars, cameras, a smartphone or tablet, warm clothing, and even a picnic, and spend an hour contributing to the future of local wildlife.

Updates will be shared on ORRCA’s Facebook and Instagram @orrcaaustralia throughout the day.

Registrations are essential.

Register at: www.orrca.org.au/dolphin-census

Once registered, participants will receive further information and safety guidelines from the ORRCA team.