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Loralee, is the lucky lady who found the ambergris pictured here on this beach south of Streaky Bay

STREAKY BAY, Australia -- A family on South Australia's west coast has discovered a rare specimen of whale vomit on the beach that is tipped to be worth over $1 million.

The specimen, known scientifically as ambergris, is sought after by perfume companies and worth about $US20 per gram.

The sample found on a beach near Streaky Bay weighs 14.75 kilograms.

Ken Jury, who is representing the family, says this is the first discovery of ambergris in South Australia.

He says the last specimen found in Australia was in Queensland.

"Two small pieces were found that I would suggest together would make up half the size of the one that's been found at Streaky Bay, and they realised something like $190,000 each," he said.

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Reader Comments

5 people have commented so far. add your comment

Wow...what?
   comment# 1   - Liz · burley, Idaho · Apr 26, 2007 @ 1:42pm

i live near streaky bay and i have found 3 little clumps of whale vomit
   comment# 2   - darren · streaky bay · Oct 1, 2008 @ 10:56pm

Wow that is insane.
   comment# 3   - Keeley · Havelock · Sep 2, 2009 @ 3:50pm

Whale ambergris was found at Ra Island, Phang-nga Province southern of Thailand on 1 October 2009. Local people collected these ambergris all together more than 300 kilogram. I am wonder how and where can they sell it. I have many photos, if who need more information please contact supotch@hotmail.com
   comment# 4   - Supot Chantrapornsyl · Thailand · Oct 1, 2009 @ 7:10pm

Good pm!I knew only waste of a sperm whale are need by perfumery,I am not sure if they also need the vomits of the whale.I oftentimes encounters fellow Filipinos asking me if I have or if I knew a buyer of their stuff?
   comment# 5   - mas-oud sandag · Philippines · Dec 18, 2011 @ 10:36pm