Dear Marmamers, The 2019 World Whale Conference hosted by Fraser Coast Tourism and Events <https://www.fcte.com.au/> and the World Cetacean Alliance <http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/> will be in Hervey Bay, in Queensland, Australia, 8-11 October. The theme for this year's conference is* ‘Journeys that Inspire Change’.* Together, and using the latest knowledge on scientific research, conservation, tourism and cultural heritage, we will explore how our links with whales can drive positive change. We will examine how the incredible migrations of whales are fostering new local, national and international partnerships with the human communities with which these incredible animals will ultimately depend for their very future. Are you part of a project leading the way in marine mammal research, marine conservation, community engagement or sustainable development? We would like to hear from you! We are particularly keen to see and spread the word about successful, small-scale efforts and projects with the potential to be replicated nationally or internationally. We welcome you to submit an abstract via our submissions link. There are different methods of submitting your material and submissions are open to all. There is even an option for those unable to attend! Please read further for specific details. This year WWC is focusing on the theme *‘Journeys that Inspire Change’ *and will cover four main topics: *1.* *Understanding whale migrations and their significance for marine conservation* *2.* *Promoting sustainable whale and dolphin tourism for tourists and local communities* *3.* *Exploring our cultural and artistic connections with migrating whales* *4.* *Maximising the power of cetaceans to inspire positive human behaviour change to protect our oceans* Participants wishing to submit an abstract have four methods to choose from: 1. Oral Presentation *(15mins)* 2. Speed Talk (4mins) 3. Electronic Poster Presentation 4. Remote Video Presentation *(This option allows those unable to attend the conference an opportunity to still contribute. Accepted presentations will also be eligible for the Whale Conservation and Heritage Awards)* We encourage you to head over to the website and complete the submissions form, which provides all the information you need to know: https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Conference/Speakers/Abstract-Submission Following this a selection of awards will be presented relating to each theme. Your submission allows you the opportunity to be entered into the Whale Conservation and Heritage Awards, which seek to recognise and encourage excellence across the fields of conservation, animal welfare, community engagement and sustainable practices. *Submissions are open for entry from individuals or organisations, amateurs and professionals worldwide. * *Award Categories* *Inspiring Change Award* *Responsible Whale and Dolphin Tourism Award* *Whales & Dolphins in the Heart of the Community Award* *Innovation for Cetacean Conservation Award* *Please find out more details about our award categories here: * *https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Whale-Conservation-and-Heritage-Awards* <https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Whale-Conservation-and-Heritage-Awards> We are excited to receive an audience of representatives from tourist destinations, international institutions and the private sector, along with global experts in tourism, sustainability, the arts, marine conservation, scientific research and commercial whale watching – all coming together to share knowledge, inspiration and *Journeys that Inspire Change!* *We hope you can be a part of it!* Regards, *Dylan Walker *Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance* Studio 3, Lower Promenade Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK. t: +44 (0) 1273 355011 c: +44 (0) 7900 471490 e: dylan@worldcetaceanalliance.org <sophie.lewis@worldcetaceanalliance.org> The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 100 organisations and individuals in 40 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately. Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments.