Keen observers spotted the first whale at Logans Beach for 2021 on Monday.
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The mammal seems to be slightly ahead of schedule, with the exclusion zone in place from Tuesday.
The Logans Beach exclusion zone is in place from June 1 until October 31 every year to protect migrating Southern Right Whale mothers and their calves sheltering in the nursery area.
The exclusion zone is enforced by the Conservation Regulator.
All powered watercraft, including boats and jet skis are banned from entering the area.
The fine for any vessel entering the Logans Beach Exclusion Zone is $3170.
Boat operators should use extreme caution when travelling through waters near the exclusion zone. Blows and splashes are the most obvious signs that whales are present in the area.
Conservation Regulator manager for regulatory operations Glenn Sharp said Logans Beach was the only established nursery in south-east Australia where female Southern Right Whales return to raise their calves.
"The exclusion zone is in place for everyone's safety, as female Southern Right Whales are known to react to watercraft to protect their calves," Mr Sharp said.
"Conservation Regulator authorised officers will patrol the exclusion zone and the south-west coast over coming months to ensure vessel operators comply with these regulations."
Anyone who sees vessels within the exclusion zone or breaching minimum distances can report the incident to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.
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