A sense of excitement has arrived along with the cold weather as Whyalla kicks off Cuttlefest 2021, a colourful celebration of all things cuttlefish.
The Giant Australian Cuttlefish (sepia apama) swarm into rocky areas off the Whyalla coast during May, June, July and August to mate and reproduce, in the process creating a remarkable spectacle of cunning games, underwater lightshows and colourful kaleidoscopic displays.
It is the only known location this happens in the world, making it an amazingly unique experience in the shallow waters off the Whyalla coast
Cuttlefest is a unique, world-class event that has grown enormously to become a major event on the South Australian calendar.
Mayor Clare McLaughlin said Cuttlefest was the perfect time to welcome visitors to Whyalla.
“There will be so much to see and do for all ages as Cuttlefest continues to grow and we continue to recognise the importance of these wonderful creatures and celebrate this time of the year when they come to our waters.
“Local and regional community members, businesses and organisations have stepped up to offer an exciting program of activities over the 2021 Cuttlefish season.
“The Cuttlefest celebrations not only help us experience, enjoy and protect these amazing animals, it also showcases Whyalla as a progressive city to visit or work and live in,” said Mayor McLaughlin.
Whyalla City Council’s Tourism, Events and Media Team has assisted with pulling the program together and coordinating multiple community activities and projects.
This year Spencer, the Cuttlefest mascot, will once again be out and about helping to promote Cuttlefest activities.
Highlights of the Cuttlefest 2021 program include:
- Cuttlefish Art Prize
- Local snorkel & dive opportunities – book now
- Virtual underwater tour
- Cuttlefish self-guided art trail across Whyalla
- Citizen Science self-guided projects & educational resources
- Indigenous connection to the sea in and around Whyalla
- EMS (Experiencing Marine Sanctuaries) community group snorkels
- A Plastic Ocean – Free Movie Screenings @ the MAC
- Interactive children’s activities at the Whyalla Maritime Museum, VR goggles & cuttlefish touch screen
- School holiday cuttlefish activities at the Library
- Curious Cuttles - Science, art & virtual reality in the pub night
- National Park and Wildlife Service – Park of the Month Celebrations
- During July National Parks and Wildlife Service will also be celebrating and showcase Parks of the Northern Eyre Peninsula including Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park, Whyalla Conservation Park, Gawler Ranges National Park, Nullarbor National Park and Far West Coast Marine Park – with key events occurring at each location (see website for details)
The full interactive Cuttlefest 2021 program can be downloaded at www.whyalla.com or call the Whyalla Visitor Centre for further details and information, 8645 7900. Why not join in the festivities.
