Dolphin Centre open for family fun

The Dolphin Discovery Centre will celebrate the launch of the swim season on Saturday with a jam-packed open day.

Face-painting, a bouncy castle, and a fishing clinic for children are among the numerous family-friendly activities the centre will have on the day, running from 9am to 3pm.

Marine biologist Phil Coulthard said the celebration would mark the start of the dolphin breeding season, when the marine mammals began coming back into the bay.

Dependant on weather conditions, Mr Coulthard said the centre's first swim tour of the season could run in the morning and people would also be able to see the dolphins on discounted tours around the bay.

"We'll be doing eco-cruises just to give people the opportunity to see the dolphins," he said.

The event - which offers free entry - will include live entertainment and music.

Centre general manager David Kerr said he was looking forward to the day.

"It is a great opportunity to mark the start of the dolphin season," Mr Kerr said.

"The access we have here to the wild population is great."

Mr Coulthard said the centre's previous open days had brought thousands of community members and they were hoping for a good crowd again this year.

Dolphin Eco Cruises will run every hour from 11am-2pm for $25 per person, and members of the public can book in advance on the centre's website.