Dolphin feeding to continue in Tin Can Bay

Visitors and locals can continue to enjoy the remarkable opportunity of feeding wild dolphins in Tin Can Bay through a new agreement with the Queensland Government.

Queensland Environment and Heritage Protection Minister Andrew Powell said dolphins have been fed at the Tin Can Bay inlet for 30 years, stating "this activity has become an important regional tourism drawcard.

"Some of the dolphins that participate in the feeding program have been coming to the Tin Can Bay inlet for many years and know the inlet well with an understanding of watercraft and human interaction."

The agreement with Barnacles Café which allows the dolphin feeding to continue includes a number of conditions to ensure dolphin feeding is conducted in a responsible way.

Minister Powell explained "the Government will be working with the Tin Can Bay community to ensure a successful feeding program."

Member for Gympie David Gibson said the agreement was a win for local businesses in Tin Can Bay, adding "the announcement ... gives long term security for an important aspect of Tin Can Bay tourism whilst also ensuring the appropriate environmental safeguards."

Minister Powell reminded locals and tourists that dolphin feeding could only occur as part of the approved feeding program with Barnacles Café.

He concluded "(the) Government recognises that this is a great boost for tourism across the Cooloola Coast and the wider Gympie area and we are proud to continue our support of this activity.

"I encourage Queenslanders looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience to visit Tin Can Bay."

http://www.dolphinwaters.com.au