It's one thing to disagree with whaling, but it's something else to jump on a board to stand up and be counted! Here is a little of what goes on when people unite to get their paddle on in the name of saving whales... Paddle out into the ocean for a minute silence to recognise the importance of the ocean and whales to the world, and particularly the Fraser Coast. Leandra Gurbiel will be sharing the sacred Aloha Mai E chant during the event to honour the whales and their significance to the region.

Driven by International conservation group IFAW, National Whale Day is held annually with events held right across Australia raising awareness of whale conservation. The number and diversity of events all over the country on the day illustrates how valuable whales are to Australians and that we are united in our commitment to protect them.

National Whale Day was inspired by Fraser Coast local Vicki Neville, who held the first National Whale Day event in Hervey Bay eight years ago. Now, Hervey Bay is home to one of the biggest National Whale Day event across the country - Paddle Out for Whales. The event highlights an important message - that the whale watching capital of the world does not support whaling with 'whale tourism' an important part of our local economy.