Welcome to Winter Whale Fest 2026!
This June, the ruggedly beautiful coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula comes alive as Winter Whale Fest returns for a month-long celebration of our wild coastal environment, remarkable marine life, vibrant culture, intriguing science, and boundless creativity.
At the heart of this year’s festivities is the ancient story of Kondoli - the whale from Ngarrindjeri Dreaming who gave fire to the people. This powerful narrative, shared by Ngarrindjeri Elders, speaks to the profound and enduring connections between land, waters, and culture, inspiring every aspect of the 2026 program.
From the enchanting Kondoli Lantern Parade to captivating exhibitions, live music and thought-provoking talks, more than 30 events will unfold across the month—inviting you to explore, connect and experience Victor Harbor in winter.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Self guided tour: Whale Art Trail
Free activity: Take a self-guided tour of eight whale art pieces located in Victor Harbor. Trail maps available for download online or printed versions are available from the Victor Harbor Information Centre or Coral Street Art Space.
Storm Boy Discovery Trail
Step into the world of Storm Boy, the iconic Australian story set in neighbouring Alexandrina region, Fleurieu Peninsula. Visit filming locations from the 1976 original and 2019 remake across Goolwa, Port Elliot and the Coorong, and explore this unique coastal landscape.
‘Sea Different ‘ Exhibition
Dive into Sea Different, a vibrant and deeply considered exhibition showcasing ocean-inspired artworks created by neurodiverse artists and NDIS participants from across the Fleurieu Coast.
Inspired by the rhythms, textures and ever-changing nature of the sea, this collection brings together a diverse range of creative expressions - from bold and playful to calm and contemplative. Each piece offers a unique window into how artists see, feel and interpret the world around them.
Behind the Scenes Tour
Go behind the scenes at the historic Horse Drawn Tram stables for an exclusive experience with the renowned Clydesdales of the Victor Harbor Horse Tram.
Your visit begins with an exploration of the rich history of the tram, followed by the chance to witness the intricate process of harnessing and saddling a magnificent Clydesdale. You'll observe their training in the scenic yard, learn about their daily care, and get to know these cherished horses up close – including a visit to the new stables nestled in a picturesque bush setting.
'Oceans of Wonder' – Yankalilla Area School Art Exhibition
Free event: In partnership with Yankalilla Area School, Oceans of Wonder is a student-led exhibition celebrating the region’s unique marine environment and the annual whale migration along the Fleurieu Coast.
Through guided workshops, students have created original artworks inspired by Kondoli the Whale and other significant ocean beings, including the Leafy Sea Dragon.
Southern Ocean Adventure - Big Duck Boat Tour
Breathtaking 90-minute tour departing from the iconic Granite Island Causeway, Victor Harbor. Board our specially designed ocean craft ‘Kondoli’ – 12.5m NAIAD Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat & cruise between the mainland and the northern side of Granite Island, affording spectacular views of both the Victor Harbor shoreline and boulder stacked Granite Island.
Water People Exhibition
Water People is a group exhibition that brings together artists connected to Australia’s ocean and coastal environments, exploring surf, reef systems, migration routes, and saltwater culture. The exhibition reflects on our relationship with the sea and the seasonal presence of Southern Right Whales.
Curated by Maria Ellers, this show aligns with Victor Harbor’s Whale Festival and explores humanity’s deep connection to water.
Deep Blue Drum Circle
Connect with rhythm and the energy of the ocean in this welcoming community drum circle inspired by the deep blue. Guided by experienced facilitator Mark, you'll explore simple, joyful rhythms that echo the movement of waves, the song of whales, and the vast, mysterious pulse of the sea. No experience is necessary - just a willingness to listen, tap, and play.
Guided tour of the SA Whale Centre
Join a passionate guide from Fleurieu Marine Education for an engaging tour of the Whale Centre. They will share fascinating anecdotes and educational insights about the exhibits and the marine life of Encounter Bay.
Whether you're a curious visitor or a local looking to deepen your connection to the sea, this guided experience brings the stories of Southern Right Whales, dolphins, seals, and the rich marine ecosystem to life. Perfect for all ages.
Kids N’ Youth Entrepreneurs ‘Winter’ Market
Featuring stallholders aged 5–20, this vibrant ocean-themed market invites young people to share their creativity while gaining real-world experience in selling, connecting with customers and bringing their ideas to life.
Welcoming of the Whales and Smoking Ceremony
Free event: Celebrate the start of Winter Whale Fest with a short, meaningful ceremony as we welcome the whales back to their winter sanctuary.
Victor Harbor Artisan Market
Free event: The Victor Harbor Artisan Market is a great place to gather with friends and family – in support of 50 plus local and South Australian artisans, creative small businesses, food & beverage vendors and musicians.
Winter Whale Fest Expo & Artisan Market
The Winter Whale Fest Expo will now joins the Kondoli Lantern Parade day on Sunday 29 June.
Speak to local conservation groups, wander the SA Whale Centre, play lawn games and have a great family fun day.
Victor Harbor Valhalla Festival
Celebrate Viking culture on the Victor Harbor shore at the Valhalla Festival, a two-day immersion into the world of Norse legend, craftsmanship, and community.
Step into a living history Viking village where artisans demonstrate ancient trades, warriors clash in combat demonstrations, and the air fills with the spirit of the sagas. Browse the artisan market for handcrafted treasures, warm yourself in the mead hall (tavern), and witness an exclusive performance by premiere fire dancers - Inferno. Then, as night falls on Saturday, gather for the main event: the spectacular burning of a Viking ship, a breathtaking tribute to Norse tradition and the power of the sea.
Walking Tour: Whale Walk and Talk
Join Fleurieu Marine Education for an immersive stroll along Victor Harbor's stunning foreshore, where the echoes of its whaling history come alive. As you wander, guided by an expert, tales of the bustling whaling industry unfold, painting vivid pictures of days gone by. You'll spot remnants of the old whaling station, now weathered but still resonant with stories. Includes admission to the South Australian Whale Centre.
Weaving Made Simple – Whale Tail Workshop
Join 3rd generation Boandik descendant Berni for a hands-on weaving workshop celebrating culture, storytelling and connection to Country.
In this beginner-friendly session, participants will learn simple weaving techniques while creating their own whale tail artwork using natural and contemporary materials.
Walking Tour: Stories of whaling and their shipwrecks around Encounter Bay
On this tour, you will hear about the local early and successful whaling industry around the Bluff and Granite Island. Also hear some stories of the whalers in the Bay!
Winter Solstice Sound Bath
A relaxing, meditative sound experience with Jo Foley. Participants are immersed in soothing vibrations using gongs, crystal singing bowls, chimes, tuning forks, and medicine drum to promote relaxation, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
Special Screening: Surfing Visions – Tim Bonython
Renowned surf filmmaker Tim Bonython captures the raw beauty, force and spirituality of the sea through breathtaking imagery and intimate storytelling, making Surfing Visions a compelling companion to the themes explored in Water People Exhibition at Coral Street Art Space.
Kondoli Whale Story in the Sky – “Starlore & Sea Giants”
A guided night-sky experience weaving together astronomy, cultural storytelling and the spirit of whale season on the Fleurieu Coast.
Led by cultural storyteller Mark Koolmatrie and astronomer Fraser Farrell (Fleurieu Stars), this immersive evening explores star constellations, the story of Kondoli the Whale, and First Nations connections between sky, sea and Country.
Shell Rattle Making Workshop
Before the music begins, you must find your voice. In this hands-on workshop, you'll create your own shell rattle using natural coastal materials – shells, driftwood, and other treasures from the shoreline.
As you assemble your instrument, you'll explore the ancient connection between rhythm, sound, and the ocean, learning how coastal cultures have long used rattles to mimic the whisper of waves, the clatter of pebbles, and the deep pulse of the sea.
Homecoming
Homecoming is a cinematic collaboration between Adelaide-born composer Matt Laing and videographer Denis Smith, featuring the iconic Bluff at Encounter Bay. The culmination of two years of filming and recording, this original work will have its premiere presentation at Victa Cinema.
The film pairs stunning footage of the Bluff with a live performance of Laing's composition From Home, performed by three of Adelaide's finest string players: Alison Rayner (violin), Justin Julian (viola), and David Moran (cello).
Ocean Resonance
Inspired by the ocean and the presence of whales along the Fleurieu Coast, this one-hour journey invites participants to relax deeply into layered soundscapes that evoke the movement and mystery of the sea. Using a tapestry of ambient tones, resonant instruments, and field recordings drawn from the marine world, the session is designed to slow the mind, open the senses, and create a quiet space for reflection and wonder.
Water Colour Whales
Celebrate whale season through art and connect creatively with the magic of the migration. Guided by an experienced facilitator, you'll learn simple watercolour techniques to bring these gentle giants to life: soft washes for the ocean's depths, delicate brushstrokes for the curve of a tail, and splashes of light to catch the moment a whale breaks the surface.
No prior painting experience is needed.
Kondoli Dreaming Painting Workshop with Kyla McHughes
Join Kyla McHughes, a Ramindjeri/Ngarrindjeri woman, for a fun and creative painting workshop where we all come together to hear the story of Kondoli Dreaming - a Ngarrindjeri Dreaming story about the whale Kondoli for Winter Whale Fest 2026.
The mural will hang in the library to celebrate the Whale Festival and recognise Reconciliation Week, which runs from 27 May to 3 June 2026.
Rhythms of the Sea – Dance & Meditation
Dive deeper into yourself through movement and guided meditation. Flow freely with ocean-themed music and imagine yourself weightless, floating through a calming inner journey hosted by Julie Sexton.
Documentary: The Whale in the Tree - Carving Buttons & Bobby
This 40-minute amateur documentary tells the remarkable local story behind 'Buttons and Bobby', the iconic Southern Right Whale mother and calf sculptures overlooking the coast. From a fallen red gum tree near Naracoorte to a community's shared vision, follow sculptor Silvio Apponyi's journey and the community's efforts to create a lasting tribute to the whales that return each winter.
Oceans Calling – A Musical Ode to the Giants of the Sea
Oceans Calling is a unique performance where live art meets soundscape - a musical ode to the giants of the sea. Oneaea transforms through costume and movement, telling stories with voice and instruments, while Mark blends traditional and electronic sounds with field recordings of the ocean itself. Together, they create an immersive audio-visual journey that carries you from the shoreline to the deep blue and back again.
Shell Rattle Making Workshop
Before the music begins, you must find your voice. In this hands-on workshop, you'll create your own shell rattle using natural coastal materials – shells, driftwood, and other treasures from the shoreline.
As you assemble your instrument, you'll explore the ancient connection between rhythm, sound, and the ocean, learning how coastal cultures have long used rattles to mimic the whisper of waves, the clatter of pebbles, and the deep pulse of the sea.
Kondoli Lantern Parade
A highlight of the Winter Whale Fest, the Kondoli Lantern Parade is a breathtaking celebration of land, sea, and sky through light, story, and movement. Join the community as we light the night with hand-crafted lanterns, guided by the story of Kondoli the whale — a significant Ngarrindjeri creation story.
This is a free, family-friendly event — no bookings required.
Southern Shanty Singalong
Come and belt out some sea shanties at the Southern Shanty Singalong, a rousing evening of maritime music hosted in the cosy warmth of The Whale Lounge. Local songwriters will kick off the show with a few favourites, then lead the room in a full-throated, foot-stomping singalong that would make any sailor proud.
No experience necessary. All voices are welcome.
Drumming Circle – Welcoming the Whales
Welcome the whales through rhythm in this community drumming circle led by Jo Foley. Learn a harmonious beat written for the whales as they return to our shores, fostering connection, unity, and a shared sense of community.
Bluff Community Planting Festival
Join us for a community planting event at the Bluff Reserve, Encounter Bay on the 21st of June, a funded project by the Bupa Healthy Cities Landcare Program. We will be planting 2,500 native plants to enhance our local environment. This event is a great opportunity to get your hands dirty, connect with the community and contribute to a greener future.
Ocean Film Festival World Tour
The Ocean Film Festival World Tour showcases a 3 hour celebration of our oceans comprised of sublime footage taken above and below the water’s surface. This unique collection of short films from around the globe document the beauty and power of the ocean.
Whales & Wine
Whales & Wine is a relaxed sip-and-paint evening celebrating the beauty of migrating whales. Designed for adults, this session invites you to unwind, connect with fellow ocean lovers, and lose yourself in the creative flow of painting. With a glass of wine (or your favourite non-alcoholic drink) by your side, you'll be guided step by step to create your own ocean-inspired artwork – no experience necessary.
Flinders University Talks: Ocean, Coast, and Creatures
Join Flinders University for a free afternoon of short talks exploring sharks, whales, and the Coorong’s hidden life. Featuring leading researchers Prof. Charlie Huveneers, A/Prof. Luciana Möller, and Prof. Sabine Dittmann.
Bonus: Stay on afterward and enjoy the Kondoli Lantern Parade (5:00pm–8:00pm), making it a full afternoon and evening of discovery, culture, and community celebration.
Free entry. Please note venue change - now being held at SA Whale Centre.
Walking Tour: Kondoli - The whale journey to Granite Island
Ngarrindjeri have a strong connection with the whale. Come for a walk across the waters from Pultang Victor Harbor to Kaiki-Granite Island with Ngarrindjeri as we explain our connection to Kondoli the whale.
Ocean's Voice – A Sacred Sound Journey
As part of the Winter Whale Fest, Beneath the Surface presents Ocean’s Voice – a powerful and immersive sound experience led by ONEAEA Harmony Weaver, featuring live soundscapes from HOVERCRAFT.
Kondoli Lantern Workshops
Bring your creativity and be part of a special community art project that lights up the Winter Whale Fest.
These free, hands-on lantern-making workshops are a chance to come together, connect, and contribute to something meaningful. Guided by Ngarrindjeri artists and facilitators, each session blends creativity, storytelling and gentle skill-sharing in a relaxed and welcoming environment. All materials are provided, and no experience is needed.
Natural Sciences Careers Night
Join passionate course coordinators, inspiring lecturers, cutting-edge researchers, recent graduates, and current students as they share their experiences in Marine Biology, Animal Behaviour, Biodiversity and Conservation, and Environmental Sciences.
Get an insider’s look at what it’s like to study at Flinders and hear firsthand about groundbreaking research, thrilling fieldwork, and real-world career opportunities.
Flinders University Natural Sciences Career’s Night
Calling all Year 10–12 students from schools across the Fleurieu Peninsula — dive into the world of Natural Sciences and uncover exciting career paths at Flinders University!
Join passionate course coordinators, inspiring lecturers, cutting-edge researchers, recent graduates, and current students as they share their experiences in Marine Biology, Animal Behaviour, Biodiversity and Conservation, and Environmental Sciences.
Flinders University Talks: Penguins, Tuna and Coastal Change
Join Flinders University researchers for an inspiring afternoon of marine science and discovery. Dr Diane Colombelli-Negrel will share her work on little penguin conservation at Granite Island, Jessica Henkens will explore the diet and population changes of southern bluefin tuna, and Professor Patrick Hesp will discuss wave research and coastal dune systems in Victor Harbor. Each talk runs for 20 minutes, followed by a 30-minute Q&A. Perfect for curious minds and ocean lovers alike. Register now to secure your seat.
Junior Whale Spotter Training
Free, bookings essential: Our Junior Whale Spotter Program aims to teach kids, and adults, about the different types of whales we see here on South Coast, and how to identify them. Suitable for kids aged 8 years to adults. 30 minute sessions with two session times available to choose from, 11:30am 12:30pm and 1:30pm.
Beneath the Surface: A Whale Festival Art & Sound Experience
Join Art of You for “Beneath the Surface”, a magical series of ocean-themed creative sessions where families, teens, and little ones will help bring an immersive installation to life.
Create UV jellyfish and marine creatures that will be suspended from our ceiling, transforming the space into an undersea wonder. As the festival unfolds, the artwork will grow—and culminate in a stunning sound and light immersion beneath the jellyfish and a majestic whale overhead.
Ngarrindjeri/Ramindjeri basket weaving and culture with Cedric Varcoe
Join us for a day of learning traditional weaving with local Ramindjeri/Ngarrindjeri contemporary artist Cedric Varcoe. During the class Cedric will share story of culture and country.
Woven Wall Hanging Workshop
Come and join in for an afternoon of weaving..... creating a beautiful wall hanging with emu feathers, raffia, quandong seeds and shells.
Weaving workshop will be led by Ngarrindjeri artist Amanda Westley.
Tickets $80 pp. All materials provided, just bring your drink bottle .
Self guided tour: Explore Victor Harbor's unique and sometimes dark whaling history
Take a step back in time and discover the stories of Victor Harbor's unique and sometimes dark Whaling History. The first export industry in the new colony of South Australia. Exhibits and interactive displays, self guided or if available a volunteer may be able to talk to you about this chapter in Victor Harbor's story.