On board the Wave Rider, Anthony Heeney scours the ocean for clues he is nearby the world's largest animals.
Key points:
- Thousands of whales are beginning their long migration up Australia's east coast
- Tour operators are hoping for a bumper season to boost their struggling finances
- After lockdowns and closed international borders, tour companies say future outbreaks could be devastating
The skipper is finally returning to the water after the chaos of a global pandemic that brought he and his wife Jodie's business, Port Jet Cruise Adventures, to a screeching halt.
As thousands of whales, mostly humpbacks, begin their long migration up Australia's east coast, Mid North tour operators like the Heeneys are desperate to bounce back.
But he said the Port Macquarie business, which had five employees on JobKeeper, found a way to keep busy during its lean period.
"We couldn't do much as far as making any money, obviously being shut, but there was still maintenance to do and birthing fees."
Whether or not the business could sustain another lockdown remains unclear.
"It'd be a massive, massive (impact) on everyone — I feel for the Victorians," Mr Heeney said.
"As soon as we can all get vaccinated, I think that's a good thing."
Hopes of spotting Migaloo, the 'rock star'
Mr Heeney, like many in the whale spotting and boat tourism business is hoping for a bumper season, including keeping an eye out for beloved white humpback Migaloo.
"[We're] hoping for a big season — Migaloo always helps."
Whale spotter Leigh Mansfield looks out at the Port Macquarie Lighthouse most days during the northern migration, pointing tour boats in the direction of the famous whale.
Mr Mansfield has been spotting whales for decades, and said the magic of seeing "the largest animals on earth" never wore off.
Voucher program helping
Mr Heeney credited the NSW government's Dine and Discover scheme with providing some support in lieu of international tourists.
The voucher scheme was due to end in June, but with only $185 million spent of the $500 million on offer, it has been extended until the end of July.
More than 4 million people have downloaded the vouchers in New South Wales but less than half have been redeemed.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's economic development manager Liesa Davies said prior to the extension there had been good take-up of the program locally.
With a $459 million tourism industry in Port Macquarie alone and international borders expected to be closed until mid 2022, local tourism groups are depending on strong numbers from local tourists this winter.