I didn't read the article, but previously these interactions haven't resulted in any deaths.

Effectively, the Japanese usually withdraw without being rammed, and it gives the whales a chance to get away.

Of course there is a risk, but from what I've seen in the past, both sides want to avoid casualties.

The protest is highly effective - and it is probably more important with an increase in the no of whales.

For us its important - whale watching is a big industry here - and Japanese tourists love going out on the boats and seeing the whales as much as anyone else.

To be perfectly honest I think Oz's interest is more about economics - although I do know there are some - even politicians - who genuinely are horrified at the cruelty of whaling.

Whales do appear to be highly intelligent. They are very curious about human beings and like to look at faces.

I don't see how people can be comfortable with such a species being killed in the way they are in the whaling industry.