Albany 'whale rider' caught

The family of a boy who was seen climbing on the back of a southern right whale in Albany has alerted local environmental authorities to his identity.

A Department of Environment and Conservation spokeswoman said they had not interviewed the boy, who they would only identify as a minor.

The spokeswoman could not confirm when an interview would take place and it remains unclear whether charges will be laid.

DEC officials said the boy’s alleged attempt to climb on the back of the whale off Middleton Beach on September 24 was illegal and dangerous.

Approaching a whale is an offence under the Wildlife Conservation Act and can result in fines of up to $10,000.