The Eden Killer Whale Museum on Imlay Street tells the history of shore-based whaling in Twofold Bay. Its centrepiece is the skeleton of Old Tom, a male orca who was part of a pod that worked with Eden’s whalers.
The orcas of Twofold Bay
For decades a pod of orcas returned to Twofold Bay each winter. They herded baleen whales into the bay and alerted the whalers — often by breaching or slapping their tails near the whaling station. In return, whalers left the tongue and lips of the dead whale for the orcas, an arrangement remembered locally as the “law of the tongue”. The Davidson family ran the best-known whaling operation across the bay.
Old Tom died in 1930 and his skeleton was preserved; the museum was built to house it.
What else to see
- Whaling boats, tools and photographs.
- Displays on Eden’s maritime and timber history.
- Views over Twofold Bay from the museum, a good whale-spotting point in season.
Visiting tips
Check the museum’s website for opening hours and entry prices. Allow an hour or two. Pair your visit with the historic Davidson Whaling Station site in Beowa National Park for the full story.
Frequently asked questions
What is Old Tom?
A male orca from the pod that helped Eden’s whalers; his skeleton is displayed in the museum.
Where is the Killer Whale Museum?
On Imlay Street in the centre of Eden, overlooking Twofold Bay.
How long do you need at the museum?
Around one to two hours.
