With the first whales of the season sighted off the south coast this week, locals and visitors are looking forward to the annual Winter Whale Fest.

The month-long celebration of the annual whale migration kicks off with a launch on Sunday 28 May and will feature more than 25 special events.

They will include films, guided and self-guided walks, local indigenous workshops, marine expeditions and art.

A traditional Ramindjeri Welcoming the Whales and Smoking Ceremony will be a highlight of the Festival opening. 

Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in a cultural ceremony and learn about the Ramindjeri Dreamtime story of Kondoli the whale and the cultural significance of Southern Right Whales to the local community.

Two Humpback whales were spotted in Petrel Cove on 12 May and two Southern Right whales were seen off Port Elliot and Middleton on 14 and 15 May. 23

To check the latest whale sightings go to the SA Whale Centre website.

View the full Winter Whale Fest program on the festival website.