School of Geography - Theses

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End date: 1997 × Start date: 1997 × Type: Masters Coursework thesis × Subject: Dolphins × Subject: Victoria ×

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    The regulation of dolphin tourism in Port Phillip Bay
    Saunders, Fred ( 1997)
    This report investigates whether there is a need to take a more regulated approach to the conduct of dolphin tourism in Port Phillip Bay. This was achieved by seeking the views of interest groups and through an assessment of dolphin management experience in Australia and overseas. Views from respondents were received on the adequacy of the current voluntary Code of Practice for Dolphin Tour Operators in Port Phillip Bay, whether they believe dolphins suffered disturbance as a result of current tourism practices and whether there should be compulsory licensing of dolphin tour operators. The findings of this investigation were used to assess whether a more regulated approach to dolphin tour management is required to limit disturbance to the Port Phillip Bay dolphin population. The report reviews recent research which indicates that dolphins can become disturbed by unfettered and continued unwanted human interaction. It is believed that such disturbance can flow onto the dolphin population as a whole, however, the long-term effects are not clearly known, and because of this many of the respondents advocated that a precautionary approach be adopted in the management of dolphin tours. The vast majority of interest groups surveyed were of the view that some dolphin tourism practices adversely affect dolphins, particularly when coupled with the affects of harassment by the general public. To minimise such disturbance interest groups overwhelmingly supported a more regulated approach to govern dolphin tours. This approach included the incorporation of dolphin tour regulations into legislation and the introduction of a licensing system for dolphin tour operators. The main elements of the proposed dolphin regulations advocated by respondents would, at a minimum, include a consistent approach to the development of quality interpretive material, limitations on the type and number interactions and the adoption of general environmental management guidelines. To limit disturbance to the Port Phillip Bay dolphins from tour boats and the general public (particularly during peak Summer periods), it is proposed that Ticonderoga Bay at Point Nepean be proclaimed a 'no go' area (which would be an extension in protection to its current status) and that there be a limit to the number of dolphin tour operator licences. A national approach, in cooperation with states and territories, to the development of dolphin legislation is also advocated to ensure a consistency and transparency of the management of dolphin-based tourism throughout Australia.