SYDNEY - Australian officials on Tuesday warned the public to stay away from "Migaloo," a much-loved white humpback whale who has reappeared off the eastern coast.

Queensland authorities reminded enthusiasts Migaloo was a "special-interest whale" with a 500-metre (yard) exclusion zone for boats, jetskis and aircraft enforced by a maximum fine of US$13,300 ($19,367).

"The whale-watching regulations are there to protect the whales, but also to protect people from these huge, unpredictable mammals," said state environment minister Kate Jones.

"Adult humpbacks can weigh more than a fully-loaded semi-trailer so you need to stay out of their way."

Migaloo, meaning "white fella" in one of the Queensland Aboriginal dialects, is the only all-white humpback ever documented and has built up a loyal following since he was first spotted in 1991.

As well as two dedicated websites, the animal also inspired Operation Migaloo, an anti-whale hunting campaign by environmental activists which concluded in March 2008.