THE Conservation Regulator has urged coastal visitors to curb their curiosity and keep their distance from resting and sunning seals.
Seals, including leopard, elephant and fur, regularly come ashore on Mornington Peninsula beaches to rest and lie in the sun.
A leopard seal was last week reported at the Rye back beach and in Portland an elephant seal was basking and swimming in the canal.
Authorised officers are working with other relevant authorities, including Zoos Victoria’s Marine Response Unit (MRU), to monitor the welfare and movements of these seals.
Officers will patrol known seal locations and can hand out $277 on-the-spot fines to anyone caught getting too close to seals.
“We know it’s exciting to see seals in the wild, but for your safety and to protect these wild seals we need the public to give them some space by obeying all distance rules and not feeding wildlife,” acting chief Conservation Regulator Wayne Robins said.
On land, people must stay 30 metres away from seal and 50 metres away if walking a dog.
In the ocean, swimmers and surfers must stay at least five metres away; boats must keep at least 30 meters away; and jet skis 50 metres away.
Seals are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Wildlife (Marine Mammal) Regulations 2019, and anyone who ignores the minimum distances can face penalties up to $3698 if taken to court. It is also illegal to feed marine mammals, including fish scraps, and carries the same maximum penalty.
To report a sick, injured, or distressed seal call the Marine Response Unit on 1300 245 678 or the Conservation Regulator on 136 186.
If you see people or dogs getting too close to seals call Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.
For information on staying safe around marine mammals, visit: wildlife.vic.gov.au/our-wildlife/whales,-dolphins-and-seals/
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 10 January 2023
