Swims with sea lions could be coming to Jurien Bay

Swimmers could be able to get up close and personal with sea lions in Jurien Bay this summer. The State Government has proposed a trial which would allow swimmers to interact with seals and sea lions at Jurien Bay and Shoalwater Islands marine parks. “This is a great tourism opportunity that builds on other nature-based experiences around WA such as swimming with whale sharks, humpbacks and manta rays off Ningaloo,” Tourism Minister Roger Cook said. “It will also create jobs in Rockingham and Jurien Bay, and further strengthen WA’s reputation as a destination of choice for best practice wildlife encounters.” Under current rules, the public must stay 50 metres away from sea lions and seals in the water. The government said it wanted to manage the trial in a safe and ethical way and ensure the animals were protected. The public have until November 15 to comment on the trial.