Hervey Bay is bursting with wildlife. And it’s no surprise, really, when you realise it’s located amidst world heritage-listed Fraser Island and the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Many say Hervey Bay (pronounced Harvey Bay) is the best place in the world to see humpback whales. The whales visit Hervey Bay’s waters from July to November. But the best time sightings are had from August - October. The humpbacks often play in a particular area of the bay called Platypus Bay formed by Fraser Island.

Whale watching at Hervey Bay is particularly special. Boats at other whale-watching venues often need to hurry along to keep pace with travelling whales. However, boats at Hervey Bay can stay put for long periods of time. This means viewers and the whales can get up close and personal.

And if you’re passing by early in the year, don’t worry too much about missing the whales. Dolphins frolick in the water all year round. They like playing with the boats passing around the Bay. Dugongs are also around but they’re a bit shyer, after years of intense hunting drastically reduced their numbers.

Above and around the water, you’re also sure to see pelicans, with their funny long pouched beaks that gobble fish down whole! And if you’re wandering along Point Vernon take a look up. Ospreys (sea eagles) have nestled up on poles that stand at Point Vernon and Round Island, outside the Urangan boat harbour.

Apart from the wildlife there are a great many outdoor sports and adventures you can enjoy at Hervey Bay. Sky Dive from 10,000 feet over Hervey Bay. Visit the monster shark show on The Esplanade, Hervey Bay, established by the famous Australian shark catcher, Vic Hislop. Designed to educate the display will change your opinion of the fish.

Take a guided tour to the local Aboriginal community farm called Korrawinga at Scrub Hill, and see how they are working together towards self- sufficiency.

Hire a catamaran, sailboard, canoe or fishing boat at Torquay beach and catch a whopper! There’s lots of sun and fun to be had in Hervey Bay.