Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Information for Guests

Enjoy Your Big Duck Adventure with Confidence

Following recent reports of Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Australia, some guests may have questions about what this means for their upcoming tour.

At this time, there is no reason to cancel, postpone, or alter your booking with The Big Duck Boat Tours. Our tours continue to operate as normal, providing safe and memorable opportunities to experience the spectacular coastline, marine wildlife, and natural beauty of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Australia has been preparing for the arrival of avian influenza for many years. Governments, biosecurity agencies, wildlife organisations, researchers, and primary industries have worked together to develop monitoring and response plans to help protect both wildlife and the community.

What is Avian Influenza?

Avian Influenza, often called Bird Flu, is a virus that primarily affects birds. While it has received significant international attention, the risk to the general public remains very low.

Visitors can continue to enjoy outdoor and nature-based experiences, including wildlife cruises, while following normal wildlife viewing practices.

What Does This Mean for The Big Duck Tours?

The Big Duck Boat Tours operates in accordance with all relevant environmental, wildlife, and biosecurity regulations.

Guests can continue to enjoy:

  • Seal and sea lion viewing experiences.

  • Dolphin and whale watching opportunities (seasonal).

  • Scenic coastal adventures along the Fleurieu Peninsula.

  • Safe and responsible wildlife encounters.

Our team actively monitors advice from relevant government and wildlife agencies and will implement any recommended measures should circumstances change.

Protecting Our Marine Environment

As an award-winning ecotourism operator, we care deeply about the health of South Australia's marine and coastal ecosystems.

While avian influenza has the potential to affect some wild bird populations, scientists are still assessing the extent of impacts within Australia. There is also ongoing monitoring of any potential effects on marine wildlife, including seals and sea lions.

Australia has the advantage of learning from international experiences and has spent years strengthening surveillance, wildlife monitoring, and biosecurity preparedness.

Our team works closely with researchers, conservation organisations, marine park managers, and wildlife agencies, and we remain committed to supporting the protection of our region's unique wildlife.

How Visitors Can Help

You can assist wildlife by following a few simple guidelines:

  • Observe wildlife from a respectful distance.

  • Never touch, feed, or handle wild animals.

  • Report sick or deceased wildlife to local authorities.

  • Follow directions provided by our crew and guides.

Responsible wildlife viewing helps ensure the wellbeing of animals and the long-term protection of their habitats.

Stay Informed

For the latest information, please refer to official sources:

  • South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)

  • South Australian Department for Environment and Water (DEW)

Learn more

Our Message to Guests

The arrival of avian influenza is an important wildlife and biosecurity issue, but it is not a reason to avoid experiencing South Australia's incredible natural environments.

The Big Duck Boat Tours will continue to operate safely while following all advice from government and wildlife authorities. We encourage visitors to remain informed, avoid unnecessary alarm, and continue enjoying the remarkable marine wildlife and coastal landscapes that make the Fleurieu Peninsula such a special destination.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard.