90-Day Protection Zone Introduced As Whyalla’s Giant Cuttlefish Season Falls Short
The South Australian Government has announced a temporary closure of the Upper Spencer Gulf Giant Australian Cuttlefish breeding site after surveys confirmed this year’s aggregation is significantly lower than expected.
From July 1, swimming, snorkelling, diving and vessel anchoring will be prohibited across a section of the Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park between Black Point and Stony Point. The 90 day closure is aimed at minimising the disturbance to remaining breeding cuttlefish, their eggs and hatchlings.
The decision follows the latest surveys conducted by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) and the Department for Environment and Water, which found a significant reduction in giant cuttlefish numbers this breeding season.
While annual populations naturally fluctuate, surveys estimated around 64,000 giant cuttlefish gathered at the breeding site last year. This year’s numbers are considerably lower, prompting the temporary protection measures.
History Offers Hope
It’s not the first time concerns have been raised over the iconic marine spectacle. Survey data dating back to 1998 shows numbers dropped to around 13,500 in 2013 before rebounding to more than 100,000 just two years later, eventually peaking at almost 247,000 in 2020.
Spencer Gulf Adventures owner Steve Storic said protecting the breeding grounds was the right decision.
“While this season has been slower and later than expected, history has shown the population can recover strongly,” he said.
“We support measures that give these remarkable animals the best opportunity to breed successfully.”
Cuttys Boat Tours owner Matt Waller said there were “next to no giant cuttlefish present on the Cuttlefish Reef”.
“We believe the few remaining animals should be left undisturbed to do what they need to do to survive, without human interference,” he said.
Whyalla Still Open for Business
Despite the disappointing season, tourism operators and Whyalla City Council are encouraging visitors not to write the city off.
Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone said the city fully supported the temporary protection measures, saying everyone wanted to give the remaining cuttlefish the best chance to breed.
“It’s incredibly disappointing their numbers have remained low this season. We feel for those in the industry being impacted and hope the numbers bounce back in future seasons,” he said.
“However, to the people across Australia and around the world seeing these reports – don’t let that stop you from visiting our great city and discovering everything else Whyalla has to offer.
“The city’s annual Cuttlefest celebrations will continue, with land-based activities celebrating the iconic species, while visitors can also explore attractions including the HMAS Whyalla, the Maritime Museum, Ada Ryan Gardens, Whyalla Conservation Park, coastal lookouts and the city’s famous circular jetty.
Cuttys Boat Tours owner Matt Waller echoed that message.
“Whyalla is more than just cuttlefish – the rest is still open and is waiting to welcome visitors,” he said.
