THIS weekend there will be a buzz of excitement in Bunbury for the only dolphin festival in Australia being held at the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
The centre is well-known around the world for giving people the chance to experience up close and personal encounters with dolphins.
Centre managing director David Kerr said more than half their visitors were from international locations and he encouraged more locals to experience their own backyard.
Bunbury Mail journalist Chloerissa Eadie was lucky enough to go on the first Eco Swim Encounter of the season at the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
She said seeing the dolphins swim right next to her was a realisation of how lucky we are to have such a beautiful, protected marine area in Bunbury.
Mr Kerr said the Dolphin City Festival was a chance to raise awareness about the marine life in Koombana Bay and promote to the community what sort of work they do to protect these species.
On the weekend they will be offering 45 minute Eco Tours for $25 which would ensure people could see dolphins in Koombana Bay.
He encouraged everyone to head down from 9am on Saturday to enjoy many activities including fishing clinics, sandcastle creations, face painting and electric bike tours.
“Every hour Scitech will be running a science show for the kids to enjoy which they will love,” Mr Kerr said.
“This is a fun filled festival for the family to come along and enjoy an extensive range of activities.
“The weather is looking good making for a calm day on the water which is always helpful when looking for dolphins.”
The daily activities will end at 3pm on Saturday before the evening entertainment starts at 5pm with local entertainment from the South West Blues Club.
Entry to the event is $5 and there will be a fully licensed bar and a barbeque.
On Sunday the activities start at 9am and Mr Kerr said for anyone who came dressed in a marine outfit they would receive a free sausage sizzle.
“We are striving to create a Dolphin Discovery Centre record for the most people dressed in a marine costume at one time in one place,” he said.
“The little ones can bring their marine critters down for some fun as well.”
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy the sights of Koombana Bay, see some dolphins and explore your own backyard.
For more information head to dolphindiscovery.com.au/events or phone 9791 3088
