Dr Constable was invited by the AMRTA to speak about the importance of whale tourism in Australia and Augusta.

Augusta Margaret River Tourism chief executive officer Francine Errico said she was thrilled by the Minister’s support.

Ms Constable was joined by guest speakers including cinematographer and director Leighton De Barros.

He shared his experiences about filming whales as well as previewing his latest film which follows the journey of almost 17,000 Humpback whales as they leave their summer feeding grounds in Antarctica to breeding sites in tropical waters off the west coast of Australia.

St Mary’s Dean of Curriculum Cheryl Haak presented information to guests about the school’s whale program.

The launch culminated in a whale watching tour by Naturaliste Charters.

Multiple whale sightings have already been confirmed over the past few weeks and their arrival marks the beginning of the Western Australia whale tourism season.

The sheltered bays of Augusta are visited by about 6000 Humpback and Southern Right whales.

Whale Season in Augusta lasts from June until the end of September, when the whales travel north to Geographe Bay.