Protecting South Australia’s giant cuttlefish sanctuary
03 September 2024
The Federal Government is investing $400,000 to help manage and protect our region’s unique Cuttlefish Coast Sanctuary Zone, helping ensure it can better cater for continually growing visitor numbers.
The funding will help to develop a conservation management and tourism plan for the site, which sees thousands of Giant Australian Cuttlefish congregate along the four kilometres of shallow rocky reef each year.
Led by the South Australian Government, in partnership with Whyalla City Council, this project will ensure the site is prepared for increased visitation and minimise impacts on the surrounding region.
Mayor Phill Stone said the popularity of swimming with and viewing cuttlefish through glass-bottom boats and kayaks is increasing year-on-year.
“The 2024 season saw 14,300 people experience the wonderful aggregation in Whyalla – a significant increase on the 11,500 people enjoying the experience in 2023,” Mayor Stone said.
“Council is pleased to partner with the Federal Government and the Department for Energy and Water to ensure interactions with the Giant Australian Cuttlefish are managed sensitively, with environmental protections and ecosystem monitoring in place, alongside infrastructure that allows for sustainable visitation.
“Although we’re keen to enable as many people as possible to savour this experience, we need to ensure it’s done with a view to minimising harmful impacts on the cuttlefish and the nearby environment, so they can be appreciated for years to come.”
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said the government was working together with state and territory governments, Traditional Owners, conservation groups and volunteers to protect and preserve Australia’s national-heritage-listed places for generations to come.
“These projects are also an important tool in community education and awareness, highlighting the moments, places and people that have shaped our nation,” Minister Plibersek said.
South Australian Senator Karen Grogan said: “with the recent inclusion of the site on Australia’s National Heritage List, we want to make sure this place and the surrounding areas are protected for future generations to enjoy.”
State Government Environment Minister Susan Close said the population was incredibly unique, as it’s only found in the one small, specific area.
“It’s this uniqueness that we want to ensure is fully protected and preserved for the future,” Minister Close said.