Rottnest Island beaches reopen after whale carcass attracts dozens of sharks

Wednesday, 17 November 2021 09:36

By Monique Welhan

Rottnest Island beaches have reopened after a whale carcass attracted dozens of sharks close to shore.

The rotting whale drifted just 100m off the Thomson Bay ferry jetty on Tuesday morning.

Several sharks were seen feeding on the carcass which was towed about 10km west of the island.

Thomson Bay, Pinky Beach, The Basin and Longreach Bay have since reopened however swimmers are being urged to take extra caution as any residue from the whale carcass may still attract sharks.

Fisheries Officers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) are continuing to monitor the movement and drift direction of the carcass using an attached tracking device.

Rottnest Island Rangers have reopened beaches, following the relocation of the whale carcass yesterday afternoon. DPIRD advise additional caution as carcass residue may attract sharks. See more: https://t.co/tP3LSd9jSM
— Surf Life Saving WA (@SLSWA) November 17, 2021

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