David White, who established a crocodile cruise enterprise named Solar Whisper along the Daintree River, has had to shut down his business following the capsizing of his boat due to rising floodwaters.
On March 6, a weather system affecting Far North Queensland unleashed heavy rainfall in the Daintree region, leading to the inundation of the Solar Whisper vessel’s mooring.
Upon discovering the situation, White reported finding his solar-powered boat overturned in the flood, while the ticket office and surrounding facilities were also submerged.
He noted that the Solar Whisper was the sole zero-emission boat operating on the Daintree River, designed to approach crocodiles and other wildlife gently without startling them or damaging their environment.
As a passionate crocodile conservationist in Australia, David White has dedicated nearly three decades to safeguarding this species through initiatives such as teaching, storytelling, advocacy, and documentation.
Amanda French, co-founder of CROC QLD and fellow conservationist, launched a GoFundMe campaign named Support Solar Whisper: Keeping Crocodile Conservation Afloat to assist White in rebuilding his life.
He’s arguably the most significant advocate for crocodile conservation in the nation… If anyone merits our assistance, it's David, French stated.
French highlighted that White has played a pivotal role in CROC QLD’s efforts by providing valuable video footage, images, and insights about crocodiles.
David is completely immersed in crocodile conservation… His ability to raise awareness about these animals is essential to him.
French expressed her motivation to help White not only as a fellow conservationist but also due to her personal experience of losing everything to floods.
I went through the flooding in Brisbane in 2022, so I understand the months of challenges and the initial support that quickly fades, leaving you to manage on your own, she said.
The initial fundraising target for the GoFundMe was $100,000, but it was quickly reached within three days, prompting an increase to $120,000.
White revealed that the estimated cost to restore the boat to meet legal requirements for its typical passenger capacity is around $300,000.
He pointed out that the Solar Whisper wasn’t fully insured due to being a small business with limited resources and significant expenses.
Insuring it fully would cost $11,000 each year for $80,000 coverage (including public liability)… Additionally, operating in the marine park section incurs ongoing fees regardless of activity, White clarified.
I still have to cover costs like pontoon fees, land tax, and rent even when not in operation, which is why I couldn’t secure insurance for $300,000. I hope this clarifies the situation for everyone.
White expressed his surprise at the overwhelming support from the community.
I am incredibly thankful for all the help and everything everyone has done… I will ensure transparency regarding the use of funds, as they belong to those who contributed, he stated.
This goes beyond just earning a living for me; it represents my existence, my enthusiasm, my all, and my focus is solely on the river and the animals that inhabit it.
I appreciate it. I cannot express how I feel about this and was unaware that so many would show concern.
Currently, $133,000 has been collected to assist David in bouncing back from the flooding, and Solar Whisper is now receiving the benefits from the GoFundMe campaign.
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