Fluke

In 2012 a Southern right whale gave birth to a calf in Sydney Harbour. It was the third time in recorded history that a Southern right whale had been born in the harbour. The mother and calf stayed in the sheltered waters of the city's inlets and bays for several months before heading south to the Antarctic waters. The people of Sydney were entranced by the presence of these whales so close to the city. Since then there have been numerous other sightings of whale calves in Sydney waters, including one which was found nestling next to a boat after being separated from its mother. The story of Fluke is based on these events. Lesley Gibbes' text captures the excitement, joy and awe that the presence of these magnificent mammals create among the citizens of Sydney, while Michelle Dawson's tender illustrations bring the character of Fluke and his rich underwater world to life.