community, Dolphin Marine Magic, Pet Porpoise Pool, Action for Dolphins, sea pen sanctuary

Dolphin Marine Magic, who operate the Pet Porpoise Pool in Coffs Harbour, and the animal welfare charity Action for Dolphins will investigate the possibility of establishing Australia’s first sea pen sanctuary to rehouse five dolphins currently held in swimming pools. The joint announcement about a feasibility study comes after months of legal negotiations, following a lawsuit Action for Dolphins launched in the Federal Circuit Court of Australia in 2017. If the study proves it is financially viable and in the animals’ best interests, the dolphins could be moved to a protected natural environment in the ocean off Coffs Harbour. Jordan Sosnowski from Action for Dolphins said a sea pen sanctuary would give the dolphins the most natural life possible, while also giving them the necessary care they would need in order to be able to survive in their new environment. “The ocean environment will be very different to their current lives spent in a concrete pool,” he said. “There will be currents and tides, marine life and lots for the dolphins to discover. We envisage the sanctuary itself to be open to the public to view the dolphins from a distance. Most importantly, the dolphins will be able to live with autonomy, dignity and respect.” The feasibility study to be conducted over the next few months will look carefully at environmental factors in the proposed location, the economic viability of the project and include a thorough welfare assessment to ensure it is in the animals’ best interests to be relocated to the sea pen sanctuary. “We have a duty to conduct the proper assessments and make sure the dolphins are properly prepared for the transition,” Jordan said. “It’s our view, and dolphin experts agree, that the dolphins will lead healthier and happier lives, if we can move them to a natural ocean environment. We're really excited to be taking this crucial first step and think it's a huge win for the animals.” The joint media release said: “Both Dolphin Marine Magic and Action for Dolphins are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of all dolphins and Dolphin Marine Magic will continue its education programmes to ensure the health and safety of all marine life. The feasibility study will look at social, economic, and environmental impacts of a potential sea pen in Coffs Harbour.” Related content: Dolphin Marine Magic respond to legal proceedings

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