Humpback whales are amongst the most fascinating marine mammals. Their annual migration up and down Queensland’s coast provides a fantastic learning opportunity for regional students. This blog offers educators valuable information about humpback whale life cycles, habitats, and threats, along with engaging discussion points and activities that can be brought to life with a trip to the coast to view the spectacle that is the annual humpback migration.
Ocean Life Education can support curriculum learning by hosting a humpback whale themed incursion or coastal excursion or event during the Queensland annual whale watching season (June-Oct), focusing on crucial aspects of the humpback whale life cycle and tailor-making the program to your needs.

The Journey from Antarctica to Queensland
Each year, around 20,000 humpback whales embark on one of the longest migrations of any species. They cover around 10,000 kilometres from the Antarctica to the warm water of Queensland further north. This journey occurs between May and November, and is vital for the survival of their species, ensuring a safe environment for calving and nurturing young during the crucial first stage of their life cycle.
Why Do Humpback Whales Choose Queensland’s Warm Waters?
Northern Queensland and The Great Barrier Reef provide the perfect conditions (see Habitats Program) for humpback whale mothers and their calves. Unlike the food-rich waters of Antarctica, the tropical waters offer safety from predators like orcas and warmth for the less insulated calves – that haven’t yet developed sufficient blubber for cold temperatures.
Humpback whales also mate during this time in warmer waters.

As mammals, humpback whales give birth to live young after an 11-month pregnancy.
When born, a calf is about four to five metres long and weighs nearly a tonne! The mother immediately helps it to the surface for its first breath and begins nursing it with nutrient-rich fatty milk, which helps it grow rapidly.
Early Development
The relationship between a mother and her calf is crucial for its survival. Mothers protect their calves and teach them essential skills, such as swimming – mimicking the mother, breathing, and using vocalisations to communicate.
A calf drinks a staggering 600 litres of milk daily, enabling it to gain strength and blubber quickly in order to survive the journey back south to the icy cold waters of Antarctica.
After several months in Queensland’s waters, mother and calf begin their long journey back to Antarctica. This phase is challenging for the young whale, as it must adapt to colder temperatures and start learning how to find food on its own. By the time they reach Antarctica, the calf is much stronger and more independent.
Reproduction & Maturity
Humpback whales reach reproductive age after around 5-10 years. Once mature, they then mate during the long journey north.
Humpback whales live until they are about 50 years old, when they complete the humpback whale life cycle.
Teaching Opportunities in the Classroom
Educators can integrate humpback whale life cycles, humpback whale migration, and marine conservation into science, geography, and environmental studies. Here are some ideas for classroom activities:
- Mapping the Migration – Have students trace the migration route and identify key locations such as The Antarctic, Hervey Bay, and the Great Barrier Reef. Check out our Humpback Whale Migration Calender.
- Whale-Watching Research – Book an Ocean Life Education hosted excursion to explore local whale-watching opportunities along the Queensland coast and discuss conservation efforts as outlined in our Human Impact Incursions.
- Creative Writing – Ask students to write a diary entry from the perspective of a migrating whale calf. Our Ocean Literacy incursions can set you up perfectly for this.
- Marine Animal Comparisons – Compare humpback whales with other marine animals, focusing on reproduction and survival strategies. Ocean Life Education’s interactive marine displays offer the perfect opportunity to compare with a diverse range of marine species, including fish and turtles.
- Environmental Awareness – Discuss threats such as climate change, shark nets, plastic pollution, and ship strikes, and brainstorm ways to help protect marine life. Ocean Life Education’s Human Impact Program, The Earth Under Threat, develops an understanding of the issues and how students can take responsibility for conservation.
Observing Whales in the Wild
From June to October, teachers and students can witness the magnificent sight of humpback whales along the Queensland coast. Observing their playful behaviours, such as breaching and tail-slapping, provides an exciting way to connect learning with real-world experiences. Check out our whale watching guide to find out more.
Conclusion
Humpback whales are a vital part of Australia’s marine ecosystem, and their migration offers a compelling educational topic. By teaching students about these magnificent creatures, educators can foster a love for marine conservation and inspire future generations to protect our oceans.
By integrating humpback whale life cycles, humpback whale migration, and Great Barrier Reef whale conservation into your lessons, you can provide students with valuable knowledge about marine life and the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.