Dolphin calf is Magic

The name of Koombana Bay’s newest dolphin calf was announced on Sunday after a competition run in conjunction with the South Western Times.

Picture: City of Bunbury Mayor David Smith and Dolphin Discovery Centre chief executive officer David Kerr with the winner of the dolphin naming competition Emilee Christie.

Bridgetown’s Emilee Christie wonthe competition and named the dolphin Magic.

Emilee’s mother Helen said the 11-year-old was shocked that she won out of five potential names.

‘‘She was absolutely thrilled,’’ Mrs Christie said.

She said Emilee chose the name Magic after researching the meaning behind the dolphin’s mother’s name, Mojo.

Mrs Christie said Emilee received a certificate, 12-month double pass to the Dolphin Discovery Centre and a double pass for a Dolphin Eco Tour.

Dolphin Discovery Centre marine biologist Phil Coulthard said the sex of the calf was unknown.

‘‘Mojo is a relatively new mum who occasionally visits Koombana Bay with her maternal group,’’ he said.

‘‘Her calf was first seen in June and may be Mojo’s first baby.’’

Mr Coulthard said Magic would be about six months old.

Koombana Bay is well known for dolphin births with about 10-15 babies born every year.