Seal Capture Zone in place at Apollo Bay Harbour

Published on 10 May 2023

Residents and visitors to Apollo Bay have recently reported several close encounters with a large male fur seal around the fish cleaning tables in the harbour. 

After gathering photographic evidence, the Marine Response Unit has advised that the seal requires a health assessment by vets from Melbourne Zoo.  

A temporary Seal Capture Zone will now be constructed to safely capture and assess the health and wellbeing of the seal. Please do not enter the fenced area.  

Temporary closure of the fish cleaning tables will remain in place to deter unsafe interaction with the seals. You may continue to dispose of fish waste responsibly in the provided skip bin.  

If the seal is in the precinct, you must keep a 30m distance (50m with a dog) as per the Wildlife Management Act. 

We are working closely with Colac Otway Shire, DEECA, Victorian Fisheries Authority and the Marine Response Unit to monitor the safety of the precinct.