WHALE TRAFFIC BUILDING AS RETURN MIGRATION GATHERS PACE

After their winter holiday breeding and feeding in warmer waters off Queensland, there’s a very relaxed vibe as humpback whales head back to the Southern Ocean.

Pods of the massive mammals, seen just off Coffs Harbour today, seemed laid back and playful.

Watchers onboard the Pacific Explorer were stunned when whales surfaced right next to their boat.

The inquistive visitors were juveniles and young adults.

Grown-ups and their young calves are expected to begin heading south in the next two weeks.

(VISION ONLY)