News & Alerts

Situation:

• The whale carcass, believed to be a long fin pilot whale, was reported by Surf Life Saving WA, at 1.43pm.
• It is possible the carcass will act as an attractant that could lead to sharks coming close in to shore along this stretch of coast.
• While it’s not uncommon for sharks to be present off the Western Australian coast throughout the year, people should exercise additional caution until the whale carcass beaching is resolved.

What to do:

• Take additional caution in the northern area of Boranup Beach and areas adjacent to the site within Hamelin Bay.
• Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, or Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Parks and Wildlife service staff.
• Keep informed of the latest detection and sighting information by checking the SharkSmart website or Surf Life Saving WA’s Twitter feed.
• If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to response agencies and to the public on the SharkSmart website and the Surf Life Saving WA Twitter feed.

What authorities are doing:
Parks and Wildlife service officers and Fisheries Officers are monitoring the situation and providing advice to relevant authorities.

Extra information:
Keep informed of the latest detection and sighting information by checking the Shark Activity Map on the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity or the Surf Life Saving WA Twitter – twitter.com/SLSWA.

Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for current alerts and warnings.
 
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development comprises the former departments of Agriculture and Food, Fisheries and Regional Development, together with the staff of the Regional Development Commissions.