Record-Breaking Cuttlefest 2024
Council is celebrating the success of Cuttlefest 2024, an event that showcased the natural wonder of the Giant Australian Cuttlefish aggregation. Held from May to August, the festival engaged over 16,000 attendees with a mix of underwater adventures, artistic and educational workshops, and family-friendly activities.
"The event showcased the natural wonders to thousands of visitors while also supporting local businesses and fostering an understanding of marine conservation. It's incredible to see the lasting impact this festival has had on Whyalla, both culturally and economically. I want to thank everyone involved for making this year’s Cuttlefest successful." said Mayor Phill Stone.
Jenny Barnes, Events and Tourism Lead, added, “Cuttlefest highlights the marine wonders of the Spencer Gulf and has a significant positive impact, engaging both the local community and visitors by providing opportunities to explore, celebrate, and learn about the fascinating world of the cuttlefish. Cuttlefest 2024 exceeded all expectations and it’s awesome to see this event continue to grow every year.”
Highlights from Cuttlefest 2024:
- The Salty ‘Sea’esta Twilight Event attracted approximately 5,000 attendees to Ada Ryan Gardens. With live entertainment, workshops, market stalls, food vendors, an inflatable Nylon Zoo featuring sea creatures and Storytime inside Sparkle the Cuttlefish.
- The Cuttlefest Art Prize returned, drawing 52 entries and an exhibition at the Middleback Arts Centre.
- Commercial operators introduced glass-bottom kayaks alongside glass bottom boats, snorkelling and diving tours, with over 8,000 participants experiencing the cuttlefish up close.
- Weekly “Connect with the Past” sessions at Point Lowly explored the Spencer Gulf’s ecosystem and history.
- Over 600 young people engaged in the “Cuttle Hustle” fact-finding activity held at the Visitor Information Centre, with various other workshops at the Whyalla Public Library, the Nest and Whyalla Art Gallery provided throughout the season.
- For the first time the Visitor Centre had a ‘pop-up’ information stand at the Cuttlefish Dive Site with visitor information and merchandise, this initiative was overwhelmingly successful.
Data revealed significant local economic activity during the festival, with increases in resident and visitor spending compared to previous years. The event also offered opportunities for all residents to participate, including free transportation to the Salty ‘Sea’esta provided by Des’s Cabs.
Cuttlefest 2024 was made possible through the collective efforts of the Whyalla Council, local businesses, and sponsors, including Signarama, Santos Whyalla, Des’s Cabs and Southern Cross Austereo. Their support ensured the festival’s success while underscoring the importance of sustainability, inclusivity and marine conservation.
For more information about Cuttlefest or to get involved in future events, visit whyalla.com