Press Release

January 7, 2012

Project Jonah Volunteers Dig In To Help Save Stranded Whales

More than 40 Project Jonah Marine Mammal Medics are literally digging in to assist the Department of Conservation save 18 long-finned pilot whales stranded on Farewell Spit in Nelson’s Golden Bay.

A group of 25 whales stranded at 2.00pm yesterday at Triangle Flat as part of a pod of about 70 seen swimming close to the beach. Seven died overnight and an attempt is being made to refloat the remaining 18 on the 9.00am high tide this morning.

Project Jonah CEO, Kimberly Muncaster says the trained medics are either on the scene or on their way, coming from as far away as Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury.

“These people are trained for stranding events and bring the knowledge and equipment needed to support the Department of Conservation in stranding response,” Kimberly says.

About 50 members of the public have also been mucking in to help wherever they can.

“Volunteers are still needed for the rescue response, but they must remember to look after themselves and each other too,” Kimberly says.

“Project Jonah advises them to come prepared with wet weather gear and plenty of warm clothing.”

“We welcome the help of volunteers, but have a challenging rescue operation ahead and urge them to come prepared.”

Locals are also asked to check beaches and bays around Golden Bay for further stranded whales.

“The remaining pod may still be in the bay and are at risk of stranding,” Kimberley says.

“Checking beaches throughout the next couple of days may help locate further strandings before it is too late to save the animals.”

“Likewise, the refloated whales may restrand. We ask people in and around Nelson to watch their coastline over the next week and report stranded whales to the Department of Conservation as soon as possible.”

ends

© Scoop Media