About Tangalooma On Moreton Island

It was originally a shore based whaling station perfectly positioned to process humpback whales caught off the coast during the winter months from June through to late October as they migrated to their breeding grounds further north.

It wasn't just any old whaling station. During its ten years of operation, it was the largest onshore whaling station in the southern hemisphere. Thankfully, it was only open for a decade and closed in 1962. In that time, however it caused a dramatic reduction in the humpback population. Obviously, this had a huge effect on the humpback population and in 1962 the whaling station was closed. Today, there are still reminders of the old whaling station. The flensing deck where the whales were cut up is still standing and certainly gives a perspective of the size of the operation.

I found it quite disturbing, especially after seeing some of the photos in the Marine Education and Conservation Centre. Thank goodness we watch the whales these days.

Just north of the resort are the Tangalooma Wrecks. These wrecks were deliberately sunk here during the 1960's through until 1984. The first wreck was scuttled in 1963. Their purpose is to provide a safe anchorage on the eastern side of Moreton Bay. Today the wrecks are highly photographed and enjoyed by snorkellers and SCUBA divers alike. The wrecks have created a sort of artifical reef environment and habitat for many different types of marine life. Many of the day tours offer options to snorkel on the wrecks.

The wrecks are just north of the resort. Popular with snorkellers and divers, they can be reached by boat or by swimming from the shore. More photos

You may have heard the resort referred to as the Wild Dolphin Resort. It gets a bit confusing, but that name comes from the wild dolphins who come in in the evenings and are fed.

Where is Tangalooma?

Here's a google map to help put the area into perspective. I have pinpointed the resort and Bulwer on Moreton Island, plus the 3 launch points for the various day tours, cruises and ferries to Moreton Island - Scarborough, Redcliff and Holt Street Wharf at Pinkemba near Brisbane Airport.

You can zoom in and switch to satellite mode to get better views of the island and the area.

Tangalooma Video

Here is a video that I really love. It shows a real trip to Moreton Island and the resort area. Not a promo video, real people who went by jetski. Whether you go by your own steam or you take a tour, you are bound to have a fantastic time.

Other Useful Resources

• Stay at Tangalooma - Resort & Villas
• Photos - Lots more photos of this fantastic location
• Day Trip Review - Read about and see photos from day trip to Tangalooma with my sister
• One Day Tours - Discover the different options available

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