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

More from Local News

Mandurah woman completes grueling English Channel swim

A Mandurah woman has successfully swum the English Channel.
Man and child seriously injured in South West crash

A 28-year-old man and a seven-year-old child have suffered serious injuries following a crash in Australind.
Motorists warned to expect delays during Kwinana Freeway upgrades

Major upgrades to the Kwinana Freeway between Roe Highway and Safety Bay Road are another step closer but motorists have been warned to expect two years of delays during construction.
Driver injured in Serpentine crash

A driver has suffered serious injuries in a crash in Serpentine.
Man and woman wanted for questioning over Lakelands car theft

Police are looking for a man and woman who allegedly stole a car from Lakelands Shopping Centre.
Mission Australia celebrates 25 years of supporting young people through Mandurah Reconnect program

Mission Australia is celebrating 25 years of its Mandurah Reconnect program which supports young people and families navigate conflict, prevent homelessness and build stronger futures across the Peel region.
'Mad Eagles fan' wins $6 million Lotto prize

A mad Eagles fan has claimed a $6 million Lotto win.
Mandurah woman loses everything in house fire

A woman has lost everything in a house fire in Mandurah.
Gift card scams surge past $1 million prompting urgent warning from Consumer Protection

More than $1 million has been lost in scams involving gift card payments this year, triggering an urgent warning from Consumer Protection