ORRCA

ORRCA (Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia) was born out of urgency following a dramatic mass stranding of false killer whales at Crowdy Head, New South Wales, in June 1985. During this event, 62 whales came ashore, and thanks to a coordinated rescue effort involving volunteers and wildlife officers, at least 33 were successfully refloated. The experience underscored the need for a dedicated organization to respond to marine mammal emergencies.

Officially founded in November 1985, and incorporated in early 1986, ORRCA has since become Australia’s only volunteer-based group licensed in New South Wales to rescue whales, dolphins, seals, and dugongs. Their trained teams now operate across multiple states, including Western Australia and Queensland, ready to assist local authorities during stranding events. A 24/7 Marine Mammal Rescue Hotline allows members of the public to report marine mammals, so that ORRCA team members are able to coordinate an appropriate response. In case seals need rehabilitation, ORRCA partners with facilities like Taronga Zoo or the Sea World Foundation.

ORRCA’s work spans rescue operations, research, conservation, and public education. They organize annual dolphin and whale censuses, and offer training workshops for volunteers.