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Shark ADVICE for Point Matthew Beach, Augusta
17 January 2025Update on 17 January at 8:30 am
Parks and Wildlife Service officers from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions have successfully removed the dolphin carcasses from Point Matthew Beach.
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has reopened beaches between BEN signs AU893 and AU868.
Additional caution is recommended by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, as any residue from where the carcass was beached may still attract sharks to the area.
Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow Surf Life Saving WA Twitter.
If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600.
Alert issued on 15 January 2025
Alert level:
A shark ADVICE has been issued due to two dolphin carcasses being reported at Point Matthew Beach in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
Situation:
- The dolphin carcasses were reported by Parks and Wildlife Service officers from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions at 2:38 pm.
- It is possible the carcasses will continue to act as an attractant that could lead to sharks coming in close to shore along this stretch of coast.
- Although sharks may be present along the Western Australian coast throughout the year, people should exercise additional caution.
What to do:
- Take additional caution in the Point Matthew Beach area.
- Adhere to beach closures advised by Local Government Rangers, Parks and Wildlife Service officers or Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA).
- Use your Sea Sense and stay informed by checking for shark activity on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X (formerly Twitter).
- If you see a shark, report it to Water Police on 9442 8600. All shark sighting information reported to Water Police is provided to land managers and relevant authorities and to the public on the SharkSmart website, SharkSmart WA app and @SLSWA on X.
What authorities are doing:
Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), along with staff from other agencies are monitoring the situation and providing advice to relevant authorities.
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has closed beaches between BEN signs AU893 and AU868 for the safety of water users. Once the dolphin carcasses have been removed the beaches will be reopened. At this stage it is unknown when this will be.
Extra information:
Switch on your Sea Sense and stay informed of shark activity information by checking the SharkSmart website – www.sharksmart.com.au/shark-activity, download the SharkSmart WA app or follow @SLSWA on X – x.com/SLSWA. Check www.sharksmart.com.au/news for updates to this alert and to view other warnings and media releases.