The festival begins with the new event, Song to the Ocean. Showcasing acclaimed Australian ensemble, DeepBlue, enjoy a euphoric musical experience under the night sky. Song to the Ocean is a free event held at Seafront Oval from 6pm over two nights, 29-30 July.

Crowd favourite Blessing of the Fleet returns at the Hervey Bay Marina on Saturday 31 July at 4pm. The afternoon/evening will include plenty of activities for the kids, delicious food vendors and the annual Aloha Mai E Chant.

The revamped Whale Parade & Family Day held on Sunday 1 August from 1pm. The family-friendly day will include the much-loved parade, the homecoming of the Dungry Derby, live music, children’s entertainment and rides and plenty of food vendors to go around.

The cherished Paddle Out will take place on Saturday 7 August from 9am, allowing visitors to check out the Torquay Markets as the event finishes. The Paddle Out encourages visitors to paddle out into the ocean (using a paddleboard or kayak) for a minute of silence to recognise the importance of the ocean and whales to the world. Visitors interested in participating are asked to register for the event via the website www.herveybaywhalefestival.com.au.

Creating Waves is a new event to be held at USC, Hervey Bay on Saturday 7 August from 6-8pm. This free event provides audiences with detailed stories on conservation and research regarding the impact of conservation of Australia’s Humpback Whales.