On Saturday, we took to the streets to send a message that can no longer be ignored: dolphin captivity must end.

Outside Sea World on the Gold Coast, Action for Dolphins joined passionate individuals and like-minded organisations for the 2025 Empty the Tanks protest — a global event demanding an end to the exploitation of dolphins for entertainment.

Together, we stood peacefully but powerfully. Holding signs. Sharing facts. Calling out cruelty. Because we believe every dolphin deserves to live wild and free — not trapped behind glass.

People hold signs protesting sea world on the gold coast on side of road

A global day of action with local impact

Empty the Tanks is more than just a protest. It’s a worldwide movement to expose the realities of dolphin shows and marine park cruelty. From Australia to the US, thousands of people joined forces to call time on an outdated industry.

At Sea World Gold Coast – Australia’s most well-known marine park – our message was especially urgent. This venue still houses dolphins in small, artificial pools and continues to profit from their suffering.

For two hours, our voices joined together in peaceful protest outside Sea World. The atmosphere was hopeful and powerful, a reminder that people will no longer stand by while cruelty is disguised as family fun.

A hand holds a card up in front of a beach for a dolphin and whale watching guide

Making waves beyond the protest

Our impact didn’t end at the gates.

We amplified our call to end dolphin captivity on social media, reaching thousands more Australians and tourists. We sparked conversations that questioned the status quo and encouraged people to choose ethical dolphin tourism instead.

We also shared exclusive preview cards with visitors heading into Sea World, offering them a sneak peek at our new Whale and Dolphin Watching Guide. This guide shows travellers how they can experience dolphins in the wild – with freedom, not forced tricks.

To spread the message even further, we placed cards in cafes, hotels, and tourist hotspots across the Gold Coast. In a region where Sea World has long controlled the narrative, we’re proud to be providing compassionate alternatives that put dolphin welfare first.

Two dolphins wait near edge of pool captivity

Why dolphin shows are bad – and why we protest

Captivity robs dolphins of everything that matters:

  • Space to roam – In the wild, dolphins swim up to 100km a day. In captivity, they’re confined to shallow, chlorinated tanks.
  • Natural behaviours – Captive dolphins are forced to perform unnatural tricks for food.
  • Social bonds – Families are often separated. Mating is sometimes done via artificial insemination.
  • Mental and physical health – Captivity has been linked to stress, illness, and shortened lifespans.

These are sentient, intelligent beings — not performers.

That’s why we were there. And that’s why we’ll keep showing up.

What’s next – and how you can help

We’ll keep fighting. But we can’t do it alone.

If you believe dolphins deserve freedom, here’s how you can help:

Every protest, every conversation, every pledge brings us closer to ending this industry – for good.

Thank you to everyone who stood with us – whether in person or from afar. You’re part of a growing movement demanding a better world for dolphins.