Using quantitative and qualitative methods, this study explored community perspectives, economic influence and visitors’ responses attributed to dolphin feeding tourism activity involving Australian humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis) in Tin Can Bay, Queensland Australia. This was undertaken in the context of a wildlife interaction model. The local community was found to support the economic and social benefits of the activity but raised concerns about inequities that flowed from the activity. The economic influence of the activity was proven to be more beneficial to the region than to the community in which the dolphin feeding occurred. This highlights the need for regional assessment of economic benefits in destination planning rather than simply focusing on benefits that accrue to the host community. Different factors affected the satisfaction of visitors with the feeding experience. Getting close to the dolphins was particularly influential in stimulating motivations to contribute to dolphin (and environment) conservation.
Description
Submitted in the fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, University of the Sunshine Coast, 2018.